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What are some things I should do in my junior and senior year of highschool that increases my chance of getting into UC’s?
I’m currently a junior in highschool.
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Updated
Yoga Dwi’s Answer
Great! Since you're a junior aiming for UC schools, here are key steps to strengthen your application:
1. Maintain a Strong GPA (UC Weighted & Unweighted GPA)
UC schools prioritize academic rigor, so aim for a 3.9+ unweighted GPA and a 4.2+ weighted GPA if possible.
Take AP, IB, or honors courses (UC counts these for extra weight in the GPA calculation).
Prioritize A’s in core subjects (math, science, English, history, foreign language).
2. Ace the UC A-G Course Requirements
UC schools require students to complete specific A-G courses with at least a C or better.
If possible, take extra coursework in your strongest subjects to stand out.
3. Stand Out in Extracurricular Activities
UC schools value leadership, impact, and long-term involvement over just participation.
Join clubs, sports, or student government and aim for leadership roles.
Engage in community service—show commitment to a cause over time.
Participate in internships, research, or summer programs related to your interests.
Start a personal project (blog, business, app, nonprofit) to showcase initiative.
4. Crush the UC PIQs (Personal Insight Questions)
Start brainstorming early for the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs).
Pick topics that show growth, resilience, leadership, and passion.
Write authentic, engaging responses with strong storytelling.
5. Prepare for Standardized Testing (if applicable)
UC schools are test-free (they don’t consider SAT/ACT for admission), but strong scores can help for scholarships.
6. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation (If Needed)
While UCs don’t require letters, some specific programs (e.g., UCLA’s engineering or Berkeley’s MET) do.
Build relationships with teachers early if you may need recommendations for scholarships or special programs.
7. Apply for UC-Specific Opportunities
UC COSMOS – A summer STEM program for high schoolers.
UC Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) – Helps prepare students for UC admissions.
UC Subject-Specific Programs – Look into summer programs at the specific UC you’re interested in.
8. Apply Broadly & Strategically
Aim for a mix of reach, match, and safety UCs (e.g., UCLA & Berkeley are highly competitive, while UC Riverside & UC Merced have higher acceptance rates).
Apply to at least 4-6 UC campuses to maximize your chances.
1. Maintain a Strong GPA (UC Weighted & Unweighted GPA)
UC schools prioritize academic rigor, so aim for a 3.9+ unweighted GPA and a 4.2+ weighted GPA if possible.
Take AP, IB, or honors courses (UC counts these for extra weight in the GPA calculation).
Prioritize A’s in core subjects (math, science, English, history, foreign language).
2. Ace the UC A-G Course Requirements
UC schools require students to complete specific A-G courses with at least a C or better.
If possible, take extra coursework in your strongest subjects to stand out.
3. Stand Out in Extracurricular Activities
UC schools value leadership, impact, and long-term involvement over just participation.
Join clubs, sports, or student government and aim for leadership roles.
Engage in community service—show commitment to a cause over time.
Participate in internships, research, or summer programs related to your interests.
Start a personal project (blog, business, app, nonprofit) to showcase initiative.
4. Crush the UC PIQs (Personal Insight Questions)
Start brainstorming early for the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs).
Pick topics that show growth, resilience, leadership, and passion.
Write authentic, engaging responses with strong storytelling.
5. Prepare for Standardized Testing (if applicable)
UC schools are test-free (they don’t consider SAT/ACT for admission), but strong scores can help for scholarships.
6. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation (If Needed)
While UCs don’t require letters, some specific programs (e.g., UCLA’s engineering or Berkeley’s MET) do.
Build relationships with teachers early if you may need recommendations for scholarships or special programs.
7. Apply for UC-Specific Opportunities
UC COSMOS – A summer STEM program for high schoolers.
UC Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) – Helps prepare students for UC admissions.
UC Subject-Specific Programs – Look into summer programs at the specific UC you’re interested in.
8. Apply Broadly & Strategically
Aim for a mix of reach, match, and safety UCs (e.g., UCLA & Berkeley are highly competitive, while UC Riverside & UC Merced have higher acceptance rates).
Apply to at least 4-6 UC campuses to maximize your chances.
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Hulan,
Getting into a UC school can be intimidating and tough, so it's awesome that you're thinking ahead! I advise that during junior and senior years, keep your GPA strong and take challenging classes to show off your academic progress. Even though some schools are test-optional, good SAT or ACT scores can still help, so check the latest requirements. Take into account extracurriculars that you're passionate about, aiming for leadership roles or long-term commitments. Do not forget to look into different UC campuses to find out about their programs and opportunities, and consider visiting or taking virtual tours to find the best fit for you. Getting involved in your community through volunteering or work experience can also show your dedication and help you gain valuable skills. Finally, stay on top of deadlines and meet with your school counselor for advice. Best of luck!
Getting into a UC school can be intimidating and tough, so it's awesome that you're thinking ahead! I advise that during junior and senior years, keep your GPA strong and take challenging classes to show off your academic progress. Even though some schools are test-optional, good SAT or ACT scores can still help, so check the latest requirements. Take into account extracurriculars that you're passionate about, aiming for leadership roles or long-term commitments. Do not forget to look into different UC campuses to find out about their programs and opportunities, and consider visiting or taking virtual tours to find the best fit for you. Getting involved in your community through volunteering or work experience can also show your dedication and help you gain valuable skills. Finally, stay on top of deadlines and meet with your school counselor for advice. Best of luck!
Updated
Daphne’s Answer
Plan ahead and get ready! Talk to your counselor about how to apply to the best college for you. When choosing a major, remember to think about the cost and location. Keep your grades high and try to volunteer. Colleges love seeing extracurricular activities when they pick students. Consider who could write great recommendations for you. Most importantly, enjoy your last years of high school!