ucla transfer essays

18 UCLA Essays That Worked (and Why) for 2024

Do you want to write strong essays that'll help get you into UCLA?

In this article, you'll read and learn from 18 essays written by students who got recently accepted into UCLA and see how they did it.

If you're trying to get into the University of California, Los Angeles, these essays are a valuable resource and give you a peek into UCLA admissions.

Whether you're a student or parent of an applicant, you'll see what to do—and what not to do—when writing your UC essays.

How important are the UCLA essays?

And as of 2022, the UC system no longer uses your SAT and ACT scores to decide whether or not to admit students.

With no more test scores, that means your UC essays are even more important for your application. Besides your grades (GPA) and coursework, your essays are the most influential factor for your UC admissions.

Plus, UCLA is the most applied to school in the world, with well over 100,000 applicants each year. The University of California-Los Angeles acceptance rate is lower each year, which makes your essays even more important.

Since your UC essays matter so much, it's important to get them right.

What are the UC Personal Insight Question Prompts for 2022-23?

It's a mistake to think of the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) as typical essays you'd write for a class.

Rather, the PIQs are a set of eight open-ended questions asked by the UC app. You must choose exactly four questions to respond to, and each response should be no more than 350 words.

Let's go over the UC Personal Insight Question prompts:

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

It can be helpful to see how other students responded to the UC Personal Insight Questions.

And since UCLA is one of the hardest UC's to get into, along with UC Berkeley , students that get accepted tend to write outstanding essay responses to the PIQs.

18 UCLA Personal Insight Question Examples

Here are the 18 best UCLA accepted essays that worked written by accepted students for each Personal Insight Question prompt #1-8.

• UCLA Example Essay #1
• UCLA Example Essay #2
• UCLA Example Essay #3: Violin
• UCLA Example Essay #4

UCLA Example Essay #5: Team Player

• UCLA Example Essay #6: Flute
• UCLA Example Essay #7: Optimism
• UCLA Example Essay #8
• UCLA Example Essay #9
• UCLA Example Essay #10
• UCLA Example Essay #11
• UCLA Example Essay #12

UCLA Example Essay #13: Computer Science

Ucla example essay #14: korean big toes.

• UCLA Example Essay #15

UCLA Example Essay #16: LGBT

• UCLA Example Essay #17

UCLA Example Essay #18: Being Short

Ucla example essay #1: orchestra leadership.

UC PIQ #1: Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. (350 words max)

In my freshman year of high school, I had enrolled in the String Orchestra Advanced Class which was mixed in with the Beginning class. I was the only person with experience, seven years in the Violin at the time, while most of the students in the class were beginners. I got class elected, then re-elected as President my Freshman and Sophomore years, and was First Violin, then First Viola Chair.

My first year consisted of myself and the instructor teaching the basics of each instrument. Learning a new instrument is frustrating, and there were times where older students in the class would get frustrated and unhappy that a Freshman knew more than they did.

As a leader I had to make sure I did not keep a separation between myself and my classmates. Therefore, my Sophomore year, I changed my instrument to the Viola.

By showing my classmates that I too was a beginner, and that I too had to learn because I had a new instrument -inspired the class to learn as well. My classmates no longer saw me as someone who told people to practice and not give up, yet did not have to practice or struggle themselves, but instead, as someone who was there practicing, and struggling along with them.

The Orchestra program at my school started my Freshman year as an experimental class, but the school ended the class after my Sophomore year. Though unfortunate, in the two years of its existence, my classmates went from being novices, to performers, where in the last year of the program, we performed many times for school events and finally in an orchestra conference in my Sophomore year, where judges praised our Orchestra's technique and cohesiveness.

After the class got cut, many of my classmates continued to pursue music independently, or in the District Orchestra. It is a wonderful feeling for me to see my former classmates -to this day- performing, and even teaching others, knowing that I was there when their journeys in music first began, and I look forward to seeing their musical pursuits in the future.

Why This Essay Works:

• Tells a Story: Gives context and explains how you got this leadership position. By explaining a backstory, it reveals your motivations and what drives you.
• Shows Takeaways and Lessons Learned: It's not enough to just talk about your achievements. Admissions officers are more interested in why they matter to you, and how you had an impact on others.

What They Might Improve:

• Fix Capitalization: It's not necessary to capitalize improper nouns like "violin", "viola", and "orchestra".
• Sentence Flow: Make sure your sentences aren't too long and don't have unnecessary breaks, which can interrupt the flow.

UCLA Example Essay #2: Volunteer Leadership

My group and I spent a total of seven hours preparing five hundred bagged lunches for the extensive homeless community at Oakland. Out of all the obstacles that could have halted our progress, rain was the last thing on our minds. We were lucky enough to distribute three hundred lunches before the rain began to relentlessly pour down on us. There were a few hours left of daylight before we would be able to eat Iftar for Ramadan, so, an overwhelming majority of our group wanted to call it a day. However, there was still a large number of unsheltered and hungry homeless people throughout the city, and I could not bear to let all that food go to waste. So, I raced to one of our nearest vans, grabbed a bullhorn, and yelled to gather the attention of as many people as possible. I instructed them to form lines in front of our eleven vans in order to take everybody to the nearest homeless shelters with the promise of food and entertainment. We went to six other heavily concentrated areas to do the same thing, and within just five hours, nearly five hundred homeless individuals were transported.

This event is one of the dozens of community service projects I’ve performed in my role as vice-president of the youth faction of the Sudanese Association of Northern California (SANC). This Oakland food drive has left me with a sense of clarity of what it takes to get a project, event, or any other endeavor accomplished. The food drive was obviously a success, but what made this particularly memorable is the email the president of SANC sent me the following day: “You have a keen ability to synthesize and communicate anything quickly and effectively.” I realized the explicit connection between my forensics (speech and debate) career and my community service: the power that I carry in my voice can motivate others to do good. I have tried to apply this insight into each new endeavor since.

• Specific with Numbers: Use exact numbers whenever you can to create authenticity and make it realistic. In this essay, saying "three hundred" lunches makes things concrete.
• Connects to Academic Interests: Show how your past leadership achievements relate to what you want to do in college.
• Stronger Conclusion: Make sure your conclusion isn't vague and has a concrete takeaway. Don't just use words like "this insight". Rather, rephrase that insight or draw a new idea from it.
• Sentence Structure: Having too long of sentences is a common mistake students make. Instead, splitting up complex sentences can make it easier to read.

Learn the Secrets of Successful Top-20 Applications

Join 4,000+ students and parents that already receive our 5-minute free newsletter , packed with T-20 essay examples, writing tips & tricks, and step-by-step guides.

UCLA Example Essay #3: Violin Creative Side

UC PIQ #2: Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. (350 words max)

I express my creative side by playing the violin and other musical instruments. Ever since I was a younger child, music had always been a part of my life. The first instrument I remember playing is the piano when I was four years old. My school had a music program, so I went and learned how to read music and play the Recorder. Though it was a simple instrument, it was to prepare us students for the more complex instruments that we could choose to play after completing the Recorder lessons.

I took this class all of first grade, and in second grade I was ready to choose the instrument I wanted to specialize in. I chose the Violin, and now -ten years later- I am still playing it. Throughout the years I have learned to play other instruments as well, such as the Piano, Trumpet, Viola, and more. During that time I have also been able to play those instruments in different styles of music.

From second to seventh grade, I played the Violin and sung in my elementary school district's Mariachi and my middle school's Mariachi even when I did not know how to speak Spanish. I have been playing the Violin at my church's choir almost every Sunday since Seventh grade. I played the Violin and Viola in my high school's Orchestra class in Freshman and Sophomore year, and since my Junior year I have played the trumpet in my school's Jazz Band and Trumpet Choir.

My siblings have also been inspired to be creative musically, and together we perform at our church and other places, and music has become an important part in their lives as well.

Throughout my life I have been able to express my love for music in many different ways. Whether through playing with a group, doing a solo in front of an audience, composing my own music, or teaching my younger siblings how to read and play music the way I was taught many years ago, music has always been a large way that I could express my creative side.

• Clearly Answers Prompt: For UC essays, being straightforward is not a bad thing. This essay starts off by clearly answering the prompt, before elaborating further.
• Fix Capitalization: It's not necessary to capitalize improper nouns like "freshman" and "sophomore". An easy fix is to only capitalize proper nouns, like names of people and places.
• Explain What's Meaningful: Admissions officers want to know more than just "what you did," but also why it was meaningful to you. Try to focus on the impact of your achievements more than just what you did.

UCLA Example Essay #4: Improvised Comedy Creative Side

I was brought into this world with an overactive imagination and an absence of siblings. My abundance of boredom and lack of playmates was solved by creating multiple characters, drawing them, and pretending to be them. When I joined theater my freshman year, I quickly fell in love because it brought me back to that childhood innocence of carelessly being someone else It was an opportunity to evaluate how I could incorporate my personality, experiences, and charisma into a character and to turn my visual concepts into a reality through doing makeup.

I was also introduced to improvised comedy. where I presented my witty and quirky side. On the other hand, working with a cast and crew was something I was unaccustomed to. but I soon saw myself becoming inspired by the surrounding creativity of others. Whether we were doing a dramatic or comedic play, we worked together to evoke an emotional response from the audience. It’s an honor to see people laugh and cry during our performances because I've connected with hundreds of people by putting my heart on a stage. In contrast, painting has been a private indulgence. Every feeling and thought trapped inside becomes free on that canvas into a beautiful visual creation. Like my mood, my paintings aren't uniform and consistent; they range from iridescent beaches to scattered splotches, yet every stroke, color. and mistake had a reason.

As my only patron, my mom couldn't always afford painting supplies, so occasionally I had to improvise with tools like spoons, paper towels, and erasers. Regardless of the tools I was using, my paintings were reflection of myself. The progression of my work is an exhibit of my struggles, success, and how I became who I am today. Painting is not about the finished product; it's about the journey and the lessons I've learned to get there. My creativity is not limited to the arts, but is embedded my appearance, mindset, and career path in solving mental health issues. Creativity, to me, is putting bits and pieces of myself into doing what I love.

• Strong First Sentence: Starting off with interesting ideas is the best way to get the reader hooked. It doesn't need to be complicated, but find your most interesting idea and start there.
• Connects Multiple Extracurriculars: Finding multiple examples in your life to explain your answer can make your essay stronger. Rather than focusing on just one activity, how do your activites relate with a common theme?
• Great Conclusion: A strong conclusion is often one that expands on your ideas or connects to something more universal. Try restating your main idea and add a twist or expand on it.
• Make Each Paragraph Distinct: Each paragraph should have one central idea or topic. It's better to split up your essay into many paragraphs because it makes it easier for the reader and better organized.

UC PIQ #3: What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? (350 words max)

My greatest talent would be relating to and inspiring others. Throughout my time in school I have demonstrated that talent by becoming a leader where I was trusted by my teachers and peers. It began in 5th grade when I was voted to become Student Council for my class, where my peers knew that I related well with them and that I would do my best to use my position to fix their issues.

In middle school, I became the Knowledge Bowl team Captain. There was a new coach, so the program was small, about five students. There were many students who wanted to join the team but felt that they were not "smart enough" to join. I recognized this and encouraged those students to join and they succeeded. By the end of the year, our team was 3rd in the district overall statistically standing, our highest ranking in a while.

In high school I joined JROTC as a Freshman, and I became a Platoon Sergeant my Junior year. My job for the semester was to teach and motivate cadets in the program. Some cadets did not do well with authority, and felt attacked when other class leaders would be assertive. As a leader I took a different approach, and related to my cadets. My platoon was constantly noted as being a well-rounded platoon by our instructors, and I received the Non-Commisioned Officer Leadership Award.

In Academic League, motivation was key to our team's success. Sometimes personal problems would affect a member of the team, so I showed them I could relate to their struggles and still believe in their ability to help the team. In times when we would be losing in a match, I would inspire the team to keep pushing on, and to remain positive. That year our team placed 5th in the district -again a highest ranking in a while- and I was voted as "Most Inspirational" by the team.

Throughout the years, relating to and inspiring others has been a skill that has allowed me to make great connections with so many people.

• Uses Multiple Examples: Backing up your answer with various examples from your life makes your case stronger.
• Unique Take: Rather than thinking of a skill in the literal sense, this author uses a more abstract skill. Sharing your unique perspective is key to having interesting ideas.
• Show Why It Matters: In addition to explaining your greatest skill or talent, you should tell why it is meaningful. What are the takeaways and how will you use this skill going forward in college?

UCLA Example Essay #6: Flute Greatest Talent

Just when we think we figured things out, the universe throws us a curveball. So, we have to improvise. The universe is funny like that. Sometimes it just has a way of making sure we wind up exactly where we belong.

When I first started playing flute, I probably looked like a pufferfish choking on a clump of wasabi, but that didn't matter. Blasting deep breaths into my flute, I blew voraciously as I tried to produce a B-flat; but all I could muster was a raspy whistle.

6 years later, I was filled with pride knowing that I had worked hard enough to be selected as the concert soloist for the Youth Orchestra of Bucks County. My moment had arrived; I stand center-stage and begin Chaminade's Concertino Op. 107. Recognizing the minor scales and arpeggios, my fingers glide through the measures with absolute certainty; and with each successive measure, my breathing, tone, and articulation seemed to increasingly synchronize. Before long, the piece came to an end. Holding the D-natural farmada as long I could, I let the note fade into submission and lowered my flute. Taking a bow, I reveled in the magnitude of my hard work.

As I grew older, it became evident that I would need orthodontics and jaw reduction surgeries. With my face full of rubber and metal, I couldn't form a tight enough valve to sustain notes. I was officially back to square one. The following months were brutal, I had to put away Tchaikovsky and go back to the basics; but my effort was genuine and I gradually regained my ability to play.

Today, I consider playing flute my greatest skill. Not because I can play complex scales or win competitions, but, instead, because through the horrors of braces, learning how to double-tongue, and impossibly fast measures, I never gave up. Playing flute had crafted in me the relentless determination which I've exhibited over the past 8 years. I may not know what curveballs life will pitch to me next, but I have confidence knowing I will persevere regardless of the circumstances.

• Strong Hook: Use your best idea at the start to immediately make the reader interested. First impressions matter, and by having a compelling first paragraph, the tone of your essay is immediately better.
• Specific in Naming Things: Say the names of groups, places, and other things whenever you can. Being specific whenever possible makes you seem more relatable and makes your essay more interesting.

UCLA Example Essay #7: Optimism Greatest Skill

Life can be an overwhelming obstacle course, but my ability to get over any bump with a smile on my face has been my greatest strength. Maintaining an optimistic outlook has introduced me to new opportunities, made me a better leader, and helped me get through everyday life. Although my determination to get back up was built by a couple scrapes and falls. I learned about the impact of a positive attitude on others through my experience on the tennis team.

The motivation and bond my team had because of the encouragement and support from our captains has influenced my approach to interacting with others. For instance, while working with my peers, I always praise them for the effort that they put in and patiently help them. When applying this to class projects and theater productions, I saw an improvement on our performance and our accomplishments felt more satisfying and meaningful. My positive attitude is also influential during my job at a convalescent home. As an activities assistant, my objective is to get residents to participate in activities and to make them fun.

At times, it’s difficult to convince residents that a macaroni necklace is worth getting out of bed for, but I am always that friendly face that cheers them on and picks them up. Knowing that my happiness is brightening someone else's day is extremely valuable and is the fuel to my enthusiasm.

Preserving my optimism is not always easy; however, my excitement for the future retains my drive to overcome any challenge. Every opportunity given to me is taken advantage of, and if something doesn't go as planned. I am confident another door will open. Even though I enjoy focusing on the bright side of life, I'm aware that some people feel like they cant overcome their challenges alone. I recognized that I can be a hand to help people up, someone to believe in them, and a friend to conquer obstacles with. Using this positive influence is the very reason why I am looking forward to a career in psychology.

• Shows Impact of Your Skill: Whenever possible, try to show how your skill/talent has impacted others. Why is your skill important? And how will you use it going forward in life?
• Uses Humor: Having small moments of natural humor, when appropriate, makes for a more enjoyable essay. Even a small remark like "it’s difficult to convince residents that a macaroni necklace is worth getting out of bed for" is powerful.
• Recognizes Challenges: Nobody is perfect, and even with your greatest skill or talent there are likely still shortcomings. Recognizing your challenges is important to humanize yourself and shows self-awareness.

UCLA Example Essay #8: Significant Educational Opportunity

UC PIQ #4: Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. (350 words max)

I was going to University of Southern California for three weeks, and that was all I could think about as the school year came to a close. After finding out that I had been accepted into the Bovard Scholars program, along with one of my best friends, I could not wait for the upcoming summer. As July 16th neared, I became more and more anxious,as I did not know what to expect, but I was looking forward to this new opportunity.

The program had just been launched this year and 49 of around 500 applicants were accepted. Over the course of three weeks, the 48 other people from all over the country would be my new friends. During my time there, I would be assigned a coach who would help with the college process, whether it be working on the college application as a group or having one-on-one sessions to work on personal statements. Outside of working on college applications and essays, we had guest speakers from admissions offices, student panels where we could ask questions, career panels, and workplace visits. We also had many presentations on financial aid, fields of major, jobs, and interviews which, most of it, I did not know beforehand.

Along with all this help, we also dormed at one of the residence halls, which allowed us to experience what college life might be like. I was amazed by the diversity of people that were attending the program, and I was shocked to find out that my roommate from New York was Egyptian. We even had Resident Assistants who planned evening activities for us to further stimulate college life. However, they were not just our Resident Assistants; as we grew closer we were able to gather information from them about college.

As the program came to its end, I did not want it to stop. I had such an incredible experience and learned so much about college. I knew that the program will never truly end, though, as our coaches will continue to work with us until Spring when we are accepted into colleges.

• Specific in Achievements: Being specific and saying "49 of around 500 applicants were accepted" creates credibility. It also helps admissions officers have context about your achievements and be able to infer how significant they really were.
• Stronger First Sentence: Try starting your essay with ideas, rather than retelling events. Starting off with interesting ideas helps hook your reader, and you can later support those ideas with your experiences and achievements.
• Focus on Meaning: Emphasize what your takeaways were from this educational opportunity or barrier. Admissions officers are looking for what you learned, how it affected others, and how you'll use those lessons moving forward.

UCLA Example Essay #9: Working at Health Clinic

I worked in a health clinic in the impoverished village of Amara in Sudan this summer, expecting to be assigned general administrative duties during my internship. However, those expectations were tossed out the window within the first week. I consider myself a pretty squeamish person, so the thought of blood oozing from any injury disgusts me in ways that I cannot describe in words. So naturally, I was shocked when I didn’t flinch or faint as I held the retractors of a ravaged knee during surgery. I can’t say that I confronted the daunting tasks I was given with complete confidence, but I learned from the experiences nonetheless. At times, I would question the challenging orders given to me by the faculty, but I later realized that it was due to the lack of qualified doctors and nurses at the village.

I observed eleven surgeries, ranging from liver disease to a gruesome foot infection. The clinic worked under severe pressure, as basic resources and equipment were scarce, which ended badly for some patients. There was one particular patient who did not survive a disastrous bus crash due to the unavailability of ambulances. He was laying on the floor in agonizing pain for a lingering six hours. As the viscous blood stained the white cloth that covered him when he was brought to the clinic, I felt a surge of sorrow, anger, and helplessness. It was difficult for me to come to grips with the reality that some things cannot be undone. The emotions I felt that day slowly faded, but never completely receded. I left this internship satisfied with the invaluable knowledge I obtained, but I still feel like I needed to do more. I live a relatively privileged life, and don’t have to spend each day worrying about a measly injury that could end my life. At the time, even though I thought I was worked too hard for a high school student, I now know I didn't do enough. I’m eager to return to the clinic soon, and have hopes of gaining more experience and knowledge.

• Emphasizes the Impact: After talking about what opportunity you had or what barrier you overcame, focusing on the impact of that experience is what matters. Describing your emotions and lessons learned makes the significance of those events more clear.
• Strong Hook: Focus on finding your best idea and using that as your first sentence. Often, starting off with a story or retelling what you did can come later and isn't as important.

UCLA Example Essay #10: Most Significant Challenge

UC PIQ #5: Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? (350 words max)

Education has always been important in my household, but never paramount. We were always taught to put familial needs first—even before our own. My parents always emphasized the lesson that selfishness leads to bitterness and loneliness. That value is why six new members were added to my family when my father’s brother died two years ago. I did what was expected and shifted my focus from school to helping my kin.

I remember feeling a mosaic of emotions—apprehension, prudence, and displacement—as I greeted them at the airport. The five-hour-long ride back home was awkward and somber, and the complete silence said so much more than words could. We were all just afraid of what the future had in store for us. My step aunt, my two older cousins and the three younger ones were all compassionate, loving people. Yet, I couldn't seem to shed this foreboding feeling the first time we all entered our house. Every passing week made our financial situation more tenuous. So, my brother and I volunteered to help our dad at his small pharmaceutical wholesale business after he laid off two employees. We worked after school three days a week and would return home around 8:30.

That year of juggling school with my new obligations at home and my father’s business was emotionally and physically wrenching. However, I don't pity myself and I wouldn't go back to change anything because I learned so much about my character in that year. I realized that my parent’s belief in selflessness had shaped me into a more capable person because I was able to sacrifice time from socializing and classes to contribute, in some way, to my family. And even though I was concerned that I would hurt my academic performance, I stuck to my promises. That inexplicable sense of uneasiness I felt at the airport was caused by anxiety in anticipating the new demands that could potentially exhaust me. Thankfully, the challenges prepared me for the academic rigor for my junior year, my senior year, and hopefully, for university.

• Vulnerable and Authentic: Talking about personal stories can be difficult, but often your vulnerable experiences have a lot of meaning. Being vulnerable also makes you more personable and relatable.
• Explains Realizations: Rather than focusing on what happened, focus on the impact of it and why it's meaningful. How will these past experiences and academic challenges affect you going forward?
• Stronger Conclusion: Try to connect your ending back to the beginning while expanding on it or connecting it to a universal idea. Alternatively, leave your conclusion more open ended.

UCLA Example Essay #11: Educational Challenge

Growing up, I tackled the challenge of school without much guidance from anyone other than my older sister, who is one grade higher. When I was at the young age of just five, my parents divorced and my sister and I were left with our dad, who we did not see often. Because our time with him was limited to driving us to school and home and dinner, we could not ask him for much help with homework or projects. Most of the time, we did the work ourselves or asked our uncle and aunt for help when they came on Saturdays. By the time we reached middle school, I was in more advanced classes, and although my dad had received an Associate’s Degree, he did not take advanced classes like I did, so he was unable to provide much help. My dad only took math up to geometry, and his English was not as fluent as mine, preventing him from providing much help.

Once I enrolled in high school, I was able to get help from teachers, programs, and even my sister. With this newfound help, I overcame the struggle of not knowing what to do in school and life, and I learned that help is always there, but I just needed to ask. Throughout my time in high school, I became more motivated than I was before to do the best I can and overcome anything that comes my way. I was able to do this with help from others, and I will continue to strive for greatness, overcoming any obstacles. Without the help of others, I would not have had the success that I have had in school. My good grades are a testament to the help that I have received in order for me to be where I am now. Although I can say that I have overcome this challenge, there is still one last hurdle, which is to graduate from high school, attend college, and apply everything I have learned to the real world.

• Honesty: Authenticity is most important for your essays. By revealing personal details such as your family life and struggles, you can bring admissions officers into your world.
• Sense of Gratitude: Showing a sense of appreciation and self-awareness makes you immediately more likeable. Nobody succeeds alone, so how did others in your life help you overcome difficulties?
• Provide Clarification: Some parts could be given more context, such as "why is your dad not as fluent in English?". You could use this as an opportunity to talk about your cultural background and create a more clear picture of yourself for the reader.

UCLA Example Essay #12: Self-Improvement Challenge

The saying "you can be your own worst enemy" was the embodiment of the time I hit lowest point. Finishing my 22-hour days, I expected to lay down in bed close my eyes, and smile: thinking about all my accomplishments. Instead, I was sleep deprived, rapidly losing and gaining weight, and unhappy.

As a result, I stopped being able to focus and my grades began to fall. I lost motivation and the only reason I did anything was because of my obsession with completion. In this vulnerable state, I would tell myself I was useless and shy away from taking opportunities. I started to question if could get out of the hole I dug. Ironically, I have always been an optimist. I thought about the many things I wanted to do and I wouldn't be able to do any of them from a hospital bed.

Seeing the bright light ahead of me, I moved forward to a journey of self-improvement. First, I isolated myself from things that were affecting my happiness through finding a place where I could peacefully think about why I was enduring so much pain, regularly eat, and get some sleep. When I came back from my retreat, I continued my routine which improved my health and performance in school. The greatest outcome was my realization that I was compensating for my lack of self-esteem, I've been trying to get validation from my parents and peers by trying to be perfect, but when my friends left me and my parents didn't notice my efforts I overworked myself.

It was hard to stop searching for approval, yet the support of close friends and acknowledging that I'm doing everything I'm capable of, revealed to me what its like to love yourself. From then on, I determined my self worth, no one else. Now that I found my own drive and am confident, I don't have to beg for friends. struggle to maintain grades, skip meals, or lose sleep. Presently, I can say I am no longer my worst enemy: we're like friends that get closer every day.

• Vulnerability: Showing your shortcomings and difficulties is important to reveal how you've grown and changed. Revealing your perspective and emotions also shows that you have self-awareness.
• Provide More Explanation: Don't assume that the reader will remember everything about you. For essays like this, give more context. Answer questions that will come up in the reader's mind, like "Why did you have 22-hour days?".

UC PIQ #6: Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. (350 words max)

An academic subject that inspires me is Computer Science. Computers have fascinated me ever since a young age. I used my first computer when I was 4 years old- the Apple Macintosh Performa. I began learning about how computers worked in first grade, where I had my own Windows XP computer. I did not know what I was doing when I clicked through the thousands of files that made the computer run, but it was fascinating, and almost seemed like magic. I knew that a career with computers had to be in my future.

My fascination with computers took a new meaning in freshman year, when I decided to learn how to program. I did not know where to start, so I just typed in the search browser, "how to start programming". That day, I started with the Processing Language. It was a simple language to learn, but it built the foundation for my furthered interest in the computer programming aspect of Computer Science. After a couple months of using Processing, I learned HTML/CSS and JavaScript. These languages would allow me to program a wider range of applications. Soon enough, I became bilingual in the languages of computers. As time went on throughout my freshman and sophomore years I exposed myself to more languages like SQL, Batch Scripting, and in junior year, Java.

In my junior year I took AP Computer Science A, and finally after all the years of loving computers, I was able to take Computer Science as a class where I learned the Java language. I also furthered my interest in Computer Science by integrating it with the Engineering club on campus, using the Arduino and Raspberry Pi.

This year I am in Computer Integrated Manufacturing, where I can implement my knowledge of Computer Programming into Engineering, through the use of Corel Draw with the Laser Cutter Printer and AutoDesk Inventor and OpenGL C++ Code with the CAD 3-D Printing machine.

Computer Science has always been a part of my life inside and outside of the classroom, and I seek to continue pursuing it as my major.

• Connects Interests to Extracurriculars: Showing how your activities relate to your passions reveals your motivations and what drives you. By connecting to extracurriculars, it also creates a more complete picture of your application.
• Specific In Naming Things: Whenever you are able to, being specific is better than being vague. By naming programming languages and classes, the story becomes more compelling.
• Explain Why These Things Interest You: What is the root aspect of your interests that intrigue you? Try explaining how you feel when doing these activities and what motivates you. Admissions officers want to know how these interests developed, and more importantly, why they developed.

UC PIQ #7: What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? (350 words max)

I am "Korean big toes", "a water panda in disguise", and "Mr. Sweatface" - these are the nicknames I happily accepted over the years. My life was a buoyant bubble, full of gratification, funny nicknames, and simple pleasures; but that changed when I was confronted with the inhumane conditions of the LGBT centers around my town.

Stepping into the stone-house building, a few things immediately caught my attention. The rooms were small, full of broken furniture, smelled of mold, and had poor lighting; moreover, there was no privacy and extremely limited resources. It was obvious that the facility didn't have the funds to sustain itself, let alone help anyone trying to assimilate back into society. My heart ached as I realized the advantages I had been taking for granted; the idealistic mirage of reality I previously held, was now replaced by an overwhelming truth: Life isn't fair. Everyone in that facility had been criminalized for their sexuality, and I was going to do something about it!

Over the next few weeks, I brainstormed ideas and eventually decided on creating a blog where I would share the stories of anyone who was willing to speak up for change. The clickety-clack of my keyboard filled the common rooms of LGBT centers around my city. I slowly-but-surely interviewed the residents of these homes, recording stories of inequality and discrimination. As I uploaded each story to my blog, I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that I was breaking down barriers and fulfilling my passions. Furthermore, reading the comments flooding my inbox, I realized that although the LGBT centers in my area still remain underfunded, I had made an impact on individuals through my blog and did something for a community I genuinely cared about. It was more than I could have ever hoped for.

In my quest to create change, I forged a new nickname for myself -- "advocate"; except, unlike the titles I was bestowed as a kid, this nickname represented my creativity, ingenuity, and passion, and for those reasons, it is more precious than anyone will ever know.

• Vivid Descriptions: Painting a picture can make your stories immediately more interesting. By using descriptive language and word choice, your stories have more life to them.
• Conclusion That Connects to Beginning: Try connecting your ending back to the beginning, but with a new perspective or take. By bringing your essay full circle, it creates a sense of cohesiveness.
• Name Things Specifically: Rather than being general and saying "LGBT centers", the author could name one specifically. Since not everyone may be faimilar with the concept of "LGBT centers", it helps make your essay more concrete and easier to interpret.

UCLA Example Essay #15: Empowering Others Through Peer Tutoring

I never thought that I would tutor other people after school, but that was what I did my junior year and now in my senior year. During my freshman and sophomore years, I was the one being tutored by upperclassmen who had taken my classes before. Receiving help from others inspired me to become a tutor my junior year so I could give back and share the opportunity that I had. At first, I was not sure if I would be up to the task, as I did not feel confident in my teaching abilities in various subjects. As time went on, however, I became at ease and comfortable tutoring anyone the more I tutored along with my peers.

Every day from Monday through Thursday, I went to library as much as I could to help tutor with others from 3 to 4 o’clock, and it slowly became a part of my daily schedule. To begin with, I was not the greatest teacher, but as I helped more and more, I gradually became better at it due to teaching the same concepts repeatedly. Not only was I helping the person I was tutoring understand the subject, but I also was becoming better at the subject by teaching it. Teaching a subject allowed me to relearn concepts and ideas that I had forgotten, as well as studying for a subject if I was tutoring a classmate.

Motivated by wanting to help other students, I was able to be at tutoring most days, and this led to me receiving a tutoring award at my school’s California Scholarship Federation banquet at the end of the year. It was a surprise to me as I was not expecting to be honored. To me, the best award was the satisfaction of helping others understand how to do homework questions and them being grateful for the help. Although this year tutoring is not being held in the library yet, I joined another club that tutors after school for the time being so I can continue helping others and spread my knowledge.

• Shows Their Realizations: Realizations and new understanding are how people change. That's why its important to look for what lessons you learned, and what you took away from your activities.
• Explain Why: Try to predict what questions will arise in the reader's mind, and answer those questions. For this essay, one question that is unanswered is "Why did you never think you would tutor other people?".

UC PIQ #8: Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? (350 words max)

This was the night. Clenching my fists, I called my dad over. Maybe it was the adrenaline coursing through my veins or maybe just suspense, but time seemed to freeze as anxiety washed over my consciousness. A million doubts flooded my mind as I dreaded what would come next. The pitter-patter of his feet hitting the tile floor brought me back to reality. My dad had always loved and supported me, I just had to trust that things would be alright.

In a quivering voice, my hands shaking, I explained to my dad that I was gay. After a brief moment of silence, my dad said ten words that completely changed my life: "I raised you completely wrong, get out of my house". I was devastated, but I wasn't surprised. This was the same person physically forced pork down my throat when I told him I wanted to become a vegetarian; who would hit me and my mom if either of us voiced dissenting opinions; and the same person who would come home drunk and threaten to kill us. With tears running down my cheeks, I packed my belongings and drove my 98' Nissan Pathfinder away from my home. From that night on I learned to be brave, to follow my dreams, and to fight for what I believe in.

The next few years were tough. In my community, being gay was unacceptable and embracing my identity meant enduring the consequences. I will never forget being dragged into a storage room and choked or hiding the bruises I got from being pelted by textbooks. But looking back, I realize that the lessons I learned drove me towards success. They inspired me to be relentless and graduate early, to surpass expectations by doing college-credit classes, and remain strong in the face of oppression and adversity. Moving forward, as I look to broaden my education horizons, I know that I have the emotional vitality to success wherever I go. So I want to dedicate this essay to my dad and to everyone who made me strong, thank you.

• Honest and Vulnerable: Talking about personal stories can be impactful. Often the most difficult stories are the ones that need to be shared.
• Explains Your Perspective and Emotions: Sharing how you felt in a certain moment can allow the reader to "be in your shoes." By telling your perspective, you allow admissions officers to better understand your experience.
• Focus On Takeaways: Although stories are important, what matters more is the lessons and takeaways from those stories. The majority of your essay should be focused on those ideas, with a smaller portion where you talk about what actually happened.

UCLA Example Essay #17: Fostering Inclusive Leadership

All around us, the world is dominated by big voices, people who can present themselves positively and effectively elaborate on their opinions. Many of our most successful politicians carve their paths to the top through their charisma and articulate language. Unfortunately, while many of them possess a strong voice, many of them don’t possess that same strength in listening. While their job is to represent the people, there is a large disconnect between their perspective and the perspectives of their citizens. Even in Congress, civilized debate has transformed into a shouting battle, where both parties attempt to push their ideas, but neither side is willing to listen.

In contrast, a leader with an open ear, an open mind, and an open heart is exactly what I bring to the table. I believe that everyone has a unique story to share. From the most flamboyant billionaires to the people living on the streets, every single person possesses their own unique set of skills, perspective, and knowledge that can be useful to learn from. Because of this, I make it my priority to listen to and understand the human behind each team member I work with. In recognizing each person’s strengths and weaknesses, I’m able to build a positive environment in which every person is able to reach their maximum potential.

For example, when it comes to group projects, I always make sure to know the personalities of those I’m working with and create a transparent and inclusive environment that is conducive to productivity. Rather than dishing out assignments and deadlines, I make sure everyone is able to contribute in a way that matches their strengths and skills. Furthermore, by creating such a transparent atmosphere, group members are able to understand each other’s situations and help each other out like an actual team, allowing everyone to be both productive and pleased.

With all the divisiveness that is taking place in the country today, it is more necessary than ever to have open-minded leaders such as myself to help bring this campus and this nation together.

• Strong Hook Sentence: Using a thought-provoking idea to start your sentence immediately draws the reader in. By having a unique take on the world, people want to read more and are interested by your thoughts.
• Using Examples to Explain: For abstract ideas and concepts, try using a real life example to make things more clear. Capture the essence of your ideas and find what is at the core of them.

Stepping foot in public has been like opening a floodgate to questions and comments about the one thing that I've been looked down upon my entire life for - my height. Standing out because I was 4'9" wasn't something I was proud of; I was picked last for sports, not taken seriously, and often used as a human arm rest. My mom warned me life was going to be hard if I didn't drink my milk. However, people aren't aware that my appearance is a deception and what makes me extraordinary is that I've outgrown myself. People should be asking me how a person so "big" can fit into a girl so tiny. I have a huge personality, dreams, goals, and a plethora of talent. My achievements earned me such a high standing that I do know what the weather is like up there, yet, my head is never in the clouds because my distance from the ground makes me down to earth.

My only oddity is that my anatomy has grown out of proportion. It's hard to believe that with such short arms, I can extend them long enough to touch hearts with my art and performances. I have been devoted to helping people and educating myself ever since I was young, but who knew that my brain and heart would become so gigantic? Despite my how big my brain is, I keep my head as small as my body because I value letting others know that I'll never overlook them.

Although I haven't hit as many significant growth spurts as the average person. I grow with ambition every day, considering every moment a step closer to success. Being able to pursue my passions at a university will allow me to continue maturing into a person who will one day be looked up to by many. The reader of my response cannot see the facade that has been the subject of many peoples first impressions of me. instead, they will observe that even though I can't reach the top shelf, I can still reach my goals in life.

• Using Metaphors: Explaining something ordinary (like being short) in an unusual or not-so-common way can show your unique take on it. By using metaphors, you can connect seemingly unrelated ideas together.

What can you learn from these UCLA essays?

These UC essays are not perfect—nor should they be—but each has interesting ideas and a unique perspective.

Compared to some private university essays , UC essays are relatively straightforward.

So focus on making each UC essay express one interesting idea as your answer.

Here's my top 4 lessons for UCLA essays:

• Avoid too much storytelling and descriptions. You only have 350 words, so focus on ideas.
• Answer every part of the prompt, clearly. Avoid implying your answer. Make sure your idea is crystal clear and relevant.
• Showcase a different aspect of yourself with each essay. Avoid re-using topics, unless you're taking a very different angle.
• Show your thinking. As with all successful essays, your thinking is most important.

Also applying to UC Berkeley?

I've collected additional essays from admitted Cal students that are completely unique from these UCLA essays.

If you're interested, check out these our essays that worked for UC Berkeley .

Which UCLA essay that worked was your favorite? Let me know!

Ryan Chiang , Founder of EssaysThatWorked.com

Want to read more amazing essays that worked for top schools?

Hey! 👋 I'm Ryan Chiang, the founder of Essays That Worked.

Get our 5-minute free newsletter packed with essay tips and college admissions resources, backed by real-life examples from admitted students at top-20 schools.

Meet the Author

Ryan Chiang

I'm Ryan Chiang and I created EssaysThatWorked.com - a website dedicated to helping students and their families apply to college with confident. We publish the best college admissions essays from successful applicants every year to inspire and teach future students.

You might also like:

18 UC Berkeley Essay Examples that Worked (2024)

18 UC San Diego EssaysThatWorked

18 UC Santa Barbara EssaysThatWorked

12 Best Stanford Supplemental Essays That Worked 2024

What do outstanding essays have in common? Here are our 23 most effective strategies based on lessons from admitted students.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

By signing up you agree to Terms and Privacy Policy

Now available for August 2024 ...

The College Essay Workshop

Join my on-demand step-by-step course for crafting outstanding college admissions essays, plus 1-on-1 help.

Here's everything needed to write essays worthy of Top-20 colleges.

Google Rating

Join our students who have earned acceptances to schools like...

See exactly how students wrote admitted essays for top schools.

Our 231 essay examples show you how ordinary students wrote outstanding essays that helped their applications - all in their own words.

These aren’t just essay examples - but real acceptance stories, from real students who share their most intimate details with you - down to their real essays and exact profiel stats.

How do I find a unique topic? How do I write a great essay? And how do I stand out?

Our 231 essay examples break down these exact questions. Every type of essay prompt, student, and school.

You’ll realize these students are just like you - and that, deep down, you can do it too.

Princeton Admitted Essay

People love to ask why. Why do you wear a turban? Why do you have long hair? Why are you playing a guitar with only 3 strings and watching TV at 3 A.M.—where did you get that cat? Why won’t you go back to your country, you terrorist? My answer is... uncomfortable. Many truths of the world are uncomfortable...

MIT Admitted Essay

Her baking is not confined to an amalgamation of sugar, butter, and flour. It's an outstretched hand, an open invitation, a makeshift bridge thrown across the divides of age and culture. Thanks to Buni, the reason I bake has evolved. What started as stress relief is now a lifeline to my heritage, a language that allows me to communicate with my family in ways my tongue cannot. By rolling dough for saratele and crushing walnuts for cornulete, my baking speaks more fluently to my Romanian heritage than my broken Romanian ever could....

UPenn Admitted Essay

A cow gave birth and I watched. Staring from the window of our stopped car, I experienced two beginnings that day: the small bovine life and my future. Both emerged when I was only 10 years old and cruising along the twisting roads of rural Maryland...

Over 200 more admitted essays like these...

Learn the secrets behind outstanding application essays.

College essays are confusing. And it's not your fault. You're not taught how to write them in school.

How should I structure my essay? Can I use humor? What makes a truly great essay?

There's so much conflicting advice out there.

And with people selling "magic formulas" and "structures" to follow... it's easy to be led astray.

You’ll get access to courses, live events, a dedicated essay coach, and countless resources to help you write your best essays.

You finally have a place where you can ask these questions, get advice, and see exactly how admitted students before you did it.

You’re no longer figuring out everything on your own. You're no longer stuck wondering.

Everything you get

231 essays analyzed

Explore our database of 200+ admitted essays from top-20 colleges. Filter by prompt, school, topic, word count, and more. Get expert insights into why they worked and what you can learn from them.

Exclusive access to essay editing

You'll get access to our essay editing services, which is only offered for members. You can get your essays reviewed personally by me (Ryan). I'll give you detailed feedback on how to improve your essays and make them stand out.

Dedicated essay coach & support

You'll get access to our private community, where you can ask questions and get help from me directly. I'll be there to answer your questions and provide unlimited personalized advice.

44 in-depth video lessons

Learn the secrets behind outstanding essays. We break down the entire process, from brainstorming to writing and editing. You'll learn how to write amazing college essays for any prompt, with step-by-step guides and actionable tips.

26 downloadable guides

Get our best tips and tricks in easy-to-read guides. Learn what makes great essays, how to brainstorm your best topics, and how to write specific parts like a powerful hook and memorable ending.

Tons of bonuses

Get the Ultimate College Application Planner, my 154-Point Essay Checklist, and more. You'll also get a free copy of my eBooks, including 23 College Essay Tips to Stand Out and more.

Don't take our word for it

Some names have been changed to protect the privacy of our students and parents.

" Ryan, I want to express our great appreciation to you for your help on George's application essays. You have provided invaluable resources! P.S. I will certainly recommend you to our friends. "

" Ryan—David got into The University of Michigan!!! Only 4 kids got in out of 200 that applied at his school!!! Thank you so so much for everything "

" Thank you for the incredible help Ryan - both Hannah and I have said repeatedly that we could not have done it without you! "

" Thank you for your help with my essays back in November, including my Yale supplements. Just wanted to let you know I ended up getting into and committing to Yale! "

" I feel so much more reassured to press the submit button now. I wish I knew about your site sooner! "

" ... Invaluable to me during the college admissions process! It gave me a different perspective to look at my essays. "

" Initially I was skeptical about my essay's idea and whether it was properly reflected in my writing. This gave me a clear direction! "

Don't miss out on writing your best college essays.

© 2018- 2024 Essays That Worked . All rights reserved.

Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions , Privacy Policy , and Cookie Policy .

We have no affiliation with any university or colleges on this site. All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners.

Search Website Search

Academic Resources

Academic advising/counseling options.

There are many options for academic advising at UCLA depending on a student’s needs. The resources below lay out the various academic advising options for UCLA’s College.

Transfer students should make an appointment with their advisers as needed, however, it is recommended to meet with the College Academic Counselor and Departmental Advisor at least once a quarter to check the status of major requirements and being on track for graduation*. Utilizing the Degree Audit Report through MYUCLA account can also help keep track of progress!

*Students from other colleges at UCLA may have advising options through their respective schools. The other undergraduate colleges at UCLA are the Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science (HSSEAS) ; School of the Arts and Architecture; School of Theater, Film, and Television ; and School of Nursing .

Center for Academic Advising in the College (CAAC)

CAAC is the place to go for general questions regarding requirements for graduation, transferring credit, any academic difficulty, and program planning such as double majoring or taking on a minor. They are located in A-316 Murphy Hall but visit the CAAC website for many ways to contact them including virtual!

UCLA Departmental Advising

Departmental advising is the place to go for questions regarding major/minor requirements, major/minor courses, professors, and other major/minor related concerns and issues.

Your department's contact information can be found on its respective departmental website .

Honors Counseling

Are you part of the UCLA Honors Program? If you are, then you can see an honors counselor instead of the general Center for College Academic Advising in the College . In order to see an honors counselor, a student must be accepted into the College Honors Program.

For questions on qualifications and eligibility, see the Honors Program Website .

Get in touch with an Honors Program Councelor .

Academic Advancement Program (AAP)

Are you part of AAP ? If you are, then you can see an AAP counselor. AAP addresses the specific needs of students who come from historically disadvantaged backgrounds through specialized programming and resources.

Membership is required to use their services. To find eligibility requirements and inquiries for these services visit the AAP website .

Get in touch with an AAP counselor .

Student Athletics Counseling

Are you part of Student Athletics? If you are, then you can see a Student Athletics counselor.

Student athletes utilize counseling from the UCLA Student Athletics Counseling .

Academic Honor Options

College honors.

College Honors at UCLA is an academic program designed to encourage high academic achievement and individual excellence. Students attain College Honors by completing a diverse selection of honors coursework and maintaining superior grades. One of the advantages of being in the UCLA Honors Program is that you are assigned an individual honors counselor to help you plan your time out as a transfer student and find honors courses that best meet your academic needs and graduation goals.

Students may receive the College Honors designation on their diploma by graduating with at least a 3.5 overall GPA and completing a specific number of honors courses with a letter grade of B or better in each. Find out about joining the UCLA College Honors Program .

Students who entered UCLA as Transfer students, are placed in the Transfer Coursework Plan .

Departmental Honors

In the College of Letters and Science, departmental honors and highest honors are awarded at graduation on the recommendation of a student’s major department, based on successful completion of a departmental honors program, and generally the completion of an honors thesis in major. Students should consult their department for its requirements and application process.

Latin Honors

The college awards Latin Honors according to overall grade-point average at graduation. The levels of honors are summa cum laude, magna cum laude , and cum laude . Honors are reflected on official transcripts and diplomas. Eligible transfer students must have completed at least 90 University of California units for a letter grade. Please consult with a counselor to determine eligibility if are under this unit cap.

For questions regarding Latin Honors, students in the college should consult with their advising unit ( CAC , AAP , Athletics , or Honors )

Dean’s Honors List

The School of the Arts and Architecture, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, School of Nursing, School of Theater, Film, and Television, and the College of Letters and Science award Dean’s Honors to deserving students each term. Honors are based on the grade-point average attained within a specified number of units. Consult the College or school for further information.

Academics on the Hill (For Those Who Live on Campus)

A huge advantage of living in a UCLA residential community is readily available access to world class places to study , unique classes , faculty , advice and unique community living opportunities . Learn from your neighbors and take advantage of the great academic resources and support available to you right where you live.

Center for Community Learning

In collaboration with campus academic departments, the Center for Community Learning offers UCLA undergraduates the opportunity to participate in civic engagement through a variety of structured, rigorous academic courses that link theory with practice. The research interests of faculty and students are connected to the needs and priorities of community partners throughout Los Angeles and in the state, nation and larger global community.

Center for Accessible Education (Services for Students with Disabilities)

The Center for Accessible Education provides accommodations to students with permanent or temporary disabilities and chronic medical conditions.

Services include:

Research assistance In-class note taking Adaptive equipment for the classroom Mobility assistance, And much more...

If you are not sure if you have a disability, please contact the CAE.

CLICC Labs: Laptop Checkout, Study Room Reservations, etc.

The Campus Library Instructional Computing Commons (CLICC) offers technology and support for UCLA students, faculty, and staff. CLICC provides services such as laptop lending , printing , study room reservations , projector loans, computer stations, and a wide variety of instructional software. Most CLICC counters are located in various campus libraries.

Checkout laptops using your BruinCard at 7 different locations around campus! For FREE!

Community Programs Office (CPO) Student Retention Center (SRC)

The Student Retention Center (SRC) is the first student-initiated, student-run, and student-funded retention center in the nation. Strive to aim to retain 100% of UCLA Students from historically disenfranchised communities to ensure that they have the education, training, and support needed to graduate, compete in today’s workforce, and contribute as productive members and leaders of their communities. Provide culturally relevant academic support, mentoring programs, and leadership development, to enhance the student experience to improve student success and university graduation rates.

CPO Test Bank

Print out graded past exams that were given by your current professors through the process at the CPO Test Bank .

The service is free to students and it is easy to use as a new transfer, simply go to Room 105 in the Student Activities Center and sign up.

To continue using the resource after your first quarter you must bring a graded exam in exchange for more past tests.

Engineering Transfer Center

The UCLA Samueli Engineering Transfer Center is a resource especially for transfers pursing Engineering degrees. Here, you will find information for both current transfer students at Samueli Engineering, and prospective transfer students from community colleges. Check out our events, resources, or just come hang out! Their website is: https://etransfercenter.seas.ucla.edu/

Honor Societies

Tau Sigma is a national honor society that recognizes the high academic achievement of first-year transfer students. To become a member, UCLA students need to earn a 3.5 grade-point average or better during their first term at UCLA after transferring either from a community college or a four-year institution (summer quarter not included). Invitations are issued after each regular academic term, and an induction ceremony is held during Spring Quarter.

Tau Sigma honors UCLA’s large transfer community for academic achievement and provides leadership, networking, and social activities. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students, see the Dean's honor societies web page.

Alpha Lambda Delta and Phi Eta Sigma

Alpha Lambda Delta and Phi Eta Sigma are national honor societies that recognize high achieving first-year students. Membership is based solely on academic achievement during your first year at UCLA. To be eligible students must have a 3.5 grade-point average with 12 graded University of California units in their first term at UCLA or a cumulative 3.5 GPA at the end of the second and/or third terms. Invitations are issued in Winter Quarter, and an induction ceremony is held during Spring Quarter.

Golden Key is an international interdisciplinary academic honors organization dedicated to excellence. Students qualify on the basis of objective academic criteria. No more than the top 15 percent of enrolled sophomores, juniors, and seniors may be eligible

The society recognizes and encourages scholastic achievement and excellence in all undergraduate fields of study. It unites with collegiate faculties and administrators in developing and maintaining high standards of education and promotes scholastic achievement and altruistic conduct through voluntary service. Invitations are issued in Winter Quarter, and a reception is held in Spring Quarter. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students, 1206 Murphy Hall, 310.825.3871.

Mortar Board

Mortar Board is a national honor society for college seniors that recognizes outstanding and continual scholarship, leadership, and service to the campus community.

To be considered for membership, candidates must have completed 90 units and must have attained at least a B average or be in the highest 35 percent scholastically of the junior class, whichever is higher. Applications are available early in Winter Quarter and are due by mid-February. Approximately 35 members are selected each spring by the outgoing chapter.

Phi Beta Kappa

Phi Beta Kappa is a national academic honors society in the humanities, liberal arts, and sciences, founded at the College of William and Mary in 1776. Membership is conferred for high scholastic standing and is determined by vote of the chapter council according to scholarship records. Students do not apply for Phi Beta Kappa membership.

At UCLA only graduating seniors and selected juniors are elected to membership. The annual election is held in May, with the initiation in June. At present, the minimum grade-point average considered is 3.67 (for 140 or more UC units); the minimum number of UC units considered is 90 (students at the 90-unit level must have at least a 3.85 GPA).

Students who are elected are notified by mail. For further information, contact Phi Beta Kappa in the UCLA Scholarship Resource Center, 233 Covel Commons, 310.206.2875.

Study Abroad Opportunities

There are many ways to participate in study abroad as a transfer student. Be sure to check out the Transfer Travel Abroad Timeline and the UCLA International Education Office Website to learn about all the options and to find out more information.

The Undergraduate Research Centers (URC)

The URC assists students in research. The centers support scholarly, critical, and creative research, provides mentoring and tutorials, and administers research stipends and scholarships.

The Center for Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences helps students improve their research skills, define academic interests and become a part of the university research community.

The Center for Undergraduate Research in Sciences works to serve students and faculty in the life and physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. The center focuses on increasing the retention of science majors in all disciplines, as well as preparing students for academic and research careers.

Tutoring Options

A complete list of tutoring resources available for a variety of subjects can be found through UCLA College of Letters and Sciences .

For more tutoring options, contact your Departmental Advisor .

You may be able to find additional tutoring in the Los Angeles area for a fee through websites such as ULoop and Wyzant . These are outside organizations not connected with UCLA.

There are many options for academic support in Residential Life for students who live on campus such as College Academic Mentors, Faculty in Residence, Classes on the Hill, and Undergraduate Writing Center locations on the Hill, you can find out about them here .

The Student Initiated Access Center is a student-run, student-initiated outreach program. Services include peer advising, skill building, and tutoring for historically underserved populations.

If you qualify for AAP , you have access to their peer mentoring service which offers free tutoring to all AAP students who want to strengthen their abilities to think independently, read analytically, write well, reason quantitatively, and study effectively.

The Student Retention Center offers peer counseling, mentorship, and tutoring to undergraduates with academic difficulties, and cultural and social transitions.

The UCLA Library offers a terrific online guide, one-on-one help, workshops on multiple topics such as how to write research papers, and more. Check out their website for more resources and information.

The Undergraduate Writing Center helps students with particular writing assignments and also guides students to become more effective and confident writers. They offer one-on-one appointments with peer learning facilitators, as well as walk-in appointments for more immediate questions. If you are using this resource be sure to start early in the quarter as the later in the term it gets the more difficult it is to get in to see the experts.

Community Programs Office’s Writing Success Program : Get one-on-one writing counseling with peer support, quarterly workshops on writing, and daily drop-in hours.

Below are additional resources outside of UCLA that others have found to be helpful:

Khan Academy

General Assembly

Dev Bootcamp

UCLA Libraries: Free Academic Support

The UCLA Libraries are invaluable academic resources on campus! Be sure to comb the website and mine all the great services available to you such as 1:1 consultations to go over research ideas and papers, free laptop check out , a wealth of online resources to help with your research, 24 access to librarians online , study room reservations , and more!

The two of the most commonly utilized libraries on campus are Powell Library and Young Research Library (YRL), but we encourage transfers to explore them all !

Working on a research assignment, thesis project, or personal research project? Need inspiration or ideas? Trying to figure out how to collect, organize, and cite your sources?

Schedule a free research consultation with library staff! If your preferred time slot is booked you can also drop in the InqSpace for in 220 Powell to learn about resources, strategies, and tools you can use!

Undergraduate Writing Center and UCLA Writing Programs

UCLA Writing Programs and the Undergraduate Writing Center are free services for all UCLA students.

They provide one-on-one appointments at 3 locations:

- A61 Humanities - Rieber Hall 115 - Powell 228

For hours and locations, please go to Hours & Locations . Staff at the Center are happy to work with you on course papers, capstone projects, senior thesis papers or application materials (resumes, CVs, statements of purpose or cover letters).

Writing Success Program

As part of the Community Programs Office (CPO) Student Retention Center, the Writing Success Program offers quarterly workshops, one-on-one writing support, and daily drop-in hours.

Their goal is to help ease students’ anxiety about writing and increase student confidence in their analytic and communication skills.

Check out writing tips and the Writing Programs blog here .

WI+RE (Writing Instruction + Research Education)

WI+RE is an open UCLA community focused on helping all learners succeed in their writing and research projects. The WI+RE team has created a series of online research tips and strategies , many of which are built for students by students in consultation with staff in the Library, Writing Programs, the Undergraduate Research Centers, and the Center for Digital Humanities.

If you need extra assistance and resources with your writing and research, check them out Transfers!

Film, Television & Digital Media (BA)

How to apply

First-year applicants.

You may apply for admission as a first-year if you meet the following criteria You’re currently in high school. Or, you’ve already graduated from high school, but haven’t yet enrolled in a regular session at a college or university.

For first-years, the Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television is a four-year program consisting primarily of two years of general college studies and two years of major coursework.

Transfer Applicants

You may apply for admission as a transfer if you meet the following criteria: You graduated from high school and completed college-level coursework in a regular session at any college or university since your graduation. Note: You cannot disregard your college record and apply as a freshman. We do not accept applications from students seeking second baccalaureate degrees. For transfer students, the Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television is a two-year program for those who have completed two years of general college studies.

Current UCLA Students | Change of Major

For current UCLA students, the Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television is a two-year program for those who have completed two years of general college studies. The Department of Film, Television and Digital Media (FTVDM) admits Change of Major students only once each year for the Fall Quarter.

How to Apply

Choose applicant Type to Learn how to apply

APPLICATION WORKSHEET AND INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY

October 1 – November 30, 2023

UC Application

Complete the University of California Application for Undergraduate Admission .

• For more information about UCLA Undergraduate Admissions, go to: http://www.admission.ucla.edu/

Deadline: December 7, 2023

Supplemental Application

Complete the Undergraduate FTVDM Supplemental Application .

• Note: This is not the same login used for the UC Application.

Complete all required information.

• Indicate areas of interest within Film.
• Personal Essay (2 page max)
• Life Challenge Essay (2 page max)
• Critical Essay (3 page max)
• Creative Writing (5 page max)
• Enter the names and emails of all recommenders into the Undergraduate FTVDM Supplemental Application.
• Upload unofficial copies of all transcripts.

By the time of entrance, Freshman Applicants must:

• Have at least a 3.0 GPA (CA Residents) or 3.4 GPA (Non-CA Residents)
• Satisfy the University of California’s General Freshman Admission Requirements.

October 1–November 30, 2023

• For more information on UCLA Undergraduate Admissions, go to: http://www.admission.ucla.edu/

Deadline: January 11, 2024

• Must be completed ONLINE by January 11, 2024 .
• Select the GE Plan completed. For information on the TFT General Education requirements, visit http://www.tft.ucla.edu/ge .
• Personal Essay (2 page max).
• Critical Essay (3 page max).
• Creative Writing (5 page max).
• Enter the names and emails of all recommenders into the film Undergraduate Supplemental Application
• Unofficial copies of all transcripts.

By the time of entrance, Transfer Applicants must:

Have at least a 3.2 GPA.

Satisfy the University of California’s General Transfer Admission Requirements .

Complete a minimum of 60 semester/90 quarter units of transferable work.

Complete ONE of the following General Education Plans:

UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television GE Requirements .

Another UC campus GE Requirements.

Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) at a California Community College.

Change of Major

December 9, 2023 – January 11, 2024

Online Application

Complete the Undergraduate Program Change Petition

• Email [email protected] to receive a Fee Waiver Code.
• Completed Program Change Petition
• Life Challenge Essay (2 page max).
• Submit Unofficial UCLA Transcripts.

By the time of entrance, Change of Major Applicants must:

Enroll at UCLA in Winter & Spring Quarters of the current academic year.

Complete a minimum of 90 and not exceed a maximum of 135 quarter units of coursework.

Another UCLA Major GE Requirements.

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

Cupertino, CA

• Our Philosophy
• Our Results
• News, Media, and Press
• Common Application
• College Application Essay Editing
• Extracurricular Planning
• Academic Guidance
• Summer Programs
• Interview Preparation

Middle School

• Pre-High School Consultation
• Boarding School Admissions

College Admissions

• Academic and Extracurricular Profile Evaluation
• Senior Editor College Application Program
• Summer Program Applications
• Private Consulting Program
• Transfer Admissions
• UC Transfer Admissions
• Ivy League Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

• Graduate School Admissions
• MBA Admissions

Private Tutoring

• SAT/ACT Tutoring
• AP Exam Tutoring
• Olympiad Training

Research Programs

• Science Research Program
• Humanities Competitions
• Passion Project Program
• Ad Hoc Consulting
• Athletic Recruitment
• National Universities Rankings
• Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings
• Public Schools Rankings

Acceptance Rates

• University Acceptance Rates
• Transfer Acceptance Rates
• Supplemental Essays
• College Admissions Data
• Chances Calculator
• GPA Calculator

National Universities

• College Acceptance Rates
• College Overall Acceptance Rates
• College Regular Acceptance Rates
• College Early Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Overall Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Regular Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Early Acceptance Rates

Public Schools

• Public Schools Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Overall Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Regular Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Early Acceptance Rates

Liberal Arts

• Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Overall Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Regular Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Early Acceptance Rates

UCLA Essay Prompts 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Welcome to UCLA, one of the world’s top universities. As you start your college application journey, pay attention to a crucial part that can make you stand out: the essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle at UCLA. These essays go beyond being a formality; they’re a platform for telling your personal story and showcasing what makes you special in UCLA’s lively community.

This guide is all about UCLA essays 2023-2024. We’ll walk you through everything from understanding how important these essays are in your application to sharing the best strategies to approach them. We want to give you all the tools you need.

Whether you’re great at writing or just getting started, we’re here to help you write essays that connect with the admissions committee and get you closer to joining UCLA . Let’s start this chapter of your academic journey with confidence and excitement.

Does UCLA Accept the Common App?

To apply to UCLA, you need to use the UC Apply system. UCLA doesn’t use the Common App . Instead, they have their own system. You have to fill out your application on the UC Admissions website .

All the University of California (UC) schools use this same system. Make sure you finish your application by the deadline. You can start applying on UC Admissions from August 1st and you have until November 30th to submit everything.

How Many Essays Does UCLA Have?

For the 2023-2024 admission cycles, UCLA, like other universities in the University of California (UC) system, requires applicants to respond to Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) . These are not traditional essays in the sense that many other universities require, but they are critical components of the application process. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Number of Personal Insight Questions (PIQs): UCLA asks applicants to answer four out of eight available PIQs. Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. These questions are designed to provide the admissions committee with a more holistic view of the applicant beyond academic metrics. The topics range from asking about leadership experience, creativity, overcoming challenges, to educational opportunities or barriers faced.

Nature of the PIQs: Unlike traditional essays that might ask for a comprehensive narrative, UCLA’s PIQs are more focused and specific. Each question targets a particular aspect of the applicant’s personality, experiences, or ambitions. This format allows applicants to showcase different facets of their character and life experiences, providing a rounded picture of who they are.

Flexibility and Choice: The choice of which four questions to answer gives applicants the flexibility to highlight the areas where they feel strongest or most passionate. This choice is strategic for applicants, as it allows them to tailor their application to showcase their strengths, experiences, and qualities that align with UCLA’s values and the program they are applying to.

Overall, for the UCLA Essays 2023-2024 admissions cycles, applicants are required to answer four PIQs from a set of eight. These questions are designed to elicit responses that reveal the applicant’s character, experiences, and potential fit with UCLA. The format and nature of these PIQs differ from traditional essays, providing a unique opportunity for applicants to present a multifaceted view of themselves to the admissions committee.

What are the UCLA Essay Prompts 2023-2024?

If you’re applying to UCLA or any University of California school, you’ll have to write answers to four personal insight questions. Each one should be 350 words long, and you can pick which ones you want to answer from a list of eight options.

Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?

How to Write the UCLA Essays 2023-2024

Ucla essay prompt #1.

When tackling the first prompt about leadership, your essay should be a narrative that not only describes a specific instance where you were a leader but also delves into the nuances of what leadership means to you. Begin by setting the scene: Where and when did this leadership experience occur? Who was involved? What was at stake? Then, move into the heart of the story: your actions, decisions, and leadership style. Did you lead by example, or by motivating others? How did you navigate any conflicts or challenges? It’s essential to provide specific examples and details to paint a vivid picture.

Reflect on the outcomes. How were others influenced or impacted by your leadership? What was the end result of your involvement? Leadership often involves learning from both successes and failures, so don’t shy away from discussing what you might have done differently. Finally, connect this experience to your personal growth. How has it shaped you as a person and a leader? How will these skills and insights be applied in your future endeavors, particularly at a university like UCLA?

1. Identify a Specific Leadership Experience: Encourage students to think of a specific instance where they showcased leadership. This could be a formal role like a team captain or student body president, or an informal situation where they stepped up to lead in a group project, community service, or a challenging family circumstance. The focus should be on a situation that demonstrates their ability to lead and make a positive impact. It’s important to describe the setting, the challenges faced, and the roles they and others played.

2. Highlight Positive Influence and Conflict Resolution: The prompt specifically asks how the student has influenced others positively and resolved disputes. They should reflect on how their actions and decisions led to positive outcomes. Did they mentor someone, foster teamwork, or encourage collaboration? How did they handle disagreements or differing opinions within the group? They should provide examples of specific actions they took to resolve conflicts and the outcomes of those actions.

3. Emphasize Personal Growth and Learning: UCLA is interested in how these experiences have shaped the student. They should discuss what they learned about themselves as a leader and a team player. How did the experience enhance their communication, problem-solving, or decision-making skills? What insights did they gain about working with diverse groups or handling responsibility? This reflection demonstrates maturity and self-awareness, qualities that are highly valued in a university setting.

4. Illustrate Contribution Over Time: The prompt mentions “over time,” indicating an interest in sustained effort and commitment. Students should illustrate how their leadership wasn’t a one-off event but a continuous journey. How did they grow and evolve in their role? Did they initiate any long-term changes or leave a lasting impact? This could include ongoing mentorship, lasting improvements to a club or organization, or a significant project that continued even after their direct involvement ended.

UCLA Essay Prompt #2

This prompt seeks to explore the breadth and depth of your creativity. Your response should offer a window into how you see and interact with the world creatively. Begin by defining what creativity means to you. Is it finding innovative solutions to problems, expressing yourself artistically, or thinking outside the box? Provide specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated your creativity. This could be through artwork, a unique approach to a school project, a hobby, or even day-to-day problem-solving.

Delve into the impact of your creative endeavors. How have they affected you and others around you? Perhaps your creativity has led to a community project, a personal achievement, or has simply been a means for self-expression and stress relief. Reflect on the role creativity plays in your life. How does it shape your perspective on the world? How do you envision applying your creativity in a university setting?

1. Identifying Personal Expressions of Creativity: Students should start by reflecting on moments where they felt most creative. This could involve instances of problem-solving, innovative thinking, or artistic endeavors. They should think broadly – creativity isn’t limited to traditional arts. It could be an innovative solution in a science project, a unique approach in a debate, or even creativity in everyday life, like cooking or organizing events. The idea is to pinpoint experiences that genuinely reflect their creative thinking and actions.

2. Contextualizing Creative Moments: Once a creative instance is identified, students should delve into the context. What was the situation or challenge? What motivated them to think or act creatively? This context is crucial as it demonstrates the student’s ability to recognize opportunities for creativity and their willingness to engage with them. This background story helps to paint a picture of the student’s creative mindset in action.

3. Reflecting on the Impact and Learning: The next step is to reflect on the outcome. How did their creative approach make a difference? What was the impact, whether on themselves, others, or a broader context? Students should also explore what they learned from this experience. Did it change how they approach problems or think about the world? This reflection shows self-awareness and the ability to grow from experiences.

4. Connecting Creativity to Future Goals and UCLA: Finally, students should connect their creative side to their future aspirations and how it aligns with what UCLA offers. How does their creativity play into their academic interests or career goals? How do they see themselves continuing to develop this creativity at UCLA? This connection demonstrates forward-thinking and an understanding of how their unique traits would fit into and benefit from the UCLA community.

UCLA Essay Prompt #3

In responding to this prompt, select a talent or skill that you feel genuinely passionate about and that has played a significant role in your personal development. Begin by explaining what this talent or skill is, and why it is important to you. Is it something you’ve always had a natural affinity for, or did you develop it over time? Describe the journey of developing this talent or skill. This could include formal training, self-teaching, challenges you’ve faced, and milestones you’ve achieved.

Share specific instances where you have demonstrated this talent or skill, particularly those that had significant outcomes or impacts. How have you used this talent or skill in a way that’s meaningful to you or to others? Reflect on how this talent or skill has shaped your character, your outlook on life, and your future aspirations. How do you see this talent or skill playing a role in your life at UCLA and beyond?

1. Identifying the Talent or Skill: Encourage students to reflect deeply on what they genuinely feel is their greatest talent or skill. This doesn’t necessarily have to be an academic or conventional skill like mathematics or playing a musical instrument. It could be something unique to them, such as resilience, empathy, leadership, or creative problem-solving. The key is authenticity—choosing a talent that resonates personally and is a significant part of their identity.

2. Narrative of Development: Once the talent or skill is identified, students should recount how they discovered and developed it. This narrative can include early signs of the talent, key moments of realization, and the journey of honing it. For example, if a student identifies empathy as their greatest skill, they could describe instances in their life that helped them realize and cultivate this quality, such as volunteering experiences, personal relationships, or challenges they’ve overcome.

3. Demonstrating the Talent or Skill: The next step is to illustrate how this talent or skill has been put into practice. This demonstration can be through specific examples, like leadership roles, projects, competitions, community service, or personal initiatives. It’s important to show not just participation in activities, but how their unique skill made a tangible difference or contributed to their growth or the growth of others.

4. Reflection and Impact: Finally, students should reflect on the impact of this talent or skill on their life and potentially on the lives of others. They should consider how it has shaped their perspective, contributed to their goals, and how it aligns with their future aspirations, including their potential contribution to the UCLA community. This reflection should also include how they plan to further develop this talent in college and beyond.

UCLA Essay Prompt #4

This prompt is about showcasing your ability to handle challenges in your educational journey or how you’ve leveraged opportunities. Start by clearly identifying the opportunity or barrier. Was it an advanced course, a unique educational program, or a personal or financial obstacle that impacted your education? Describe your initial reactions and how you approached the situation. What steps did you take to make the most of the opportunity or to overcome the barrier? This could include seeking help, self-study, perseverance, or creative problem-solving.

Discuss the outcome of your efforts. What did you achieve or learn from the experience? How did it change your perspective on education and your own abilities? Reflect on the skills you developed, such as resilience, time management, or a deeper understanding of a subject. Finally, connect this experience to your future at UCLA. How has it prepared you for college-level work and the challenges of higher education?

1. Identify the Opportunity or Barrier: Begin by specifically identifying either the educational opportunity you took advantage of or the barrier you faced. This could be a special program, a challenging course, lack of resources, personal circumstances, etc. Elaborate on the context and significance of this situation in your life. For example, if you took a challenging AP course, explain why it was important for you, perhaps it was your first exposure to a subject you’re now passionate about, or it was a subject you initially struggled with but wanted to conquer.

2. Personal Growth and Development: Discuss how engaging with this opportunity or barrier contributed to your personal growth. Did it change your perspective on learning, influence your academic interests, or develop specific skills like resilience, problem-solving, or time management? Illustrate this with specific examples, such as how mastering a difficult concept in a course led you to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject or how overcoming limited access to resources taught you resourcefulness and creativity.

3. Action and Initiative: Highlight the actions you took in relation to this opportunity or barrier. If it’s an opportunity, explain how you went above and beyond to maximize it. Did you seek additional resources, collaborate with peers, or take on extra projects? If it’s a barrier, describe the steps you took to overcome it. This might include seeking help, developing a strategic study plan, or balancing schoolwork with other responsibilities. The focus should be on demonstrating your proactive approach and determination.

4. Impact and Reflection: Reflect on the impact of this experience on your academic journey and future goals. How has this experience shaped your outlook toward education or influenced your career aspirations? Perhaps it led to a newfound interest in a field of study, a desire to help others facing similar barriers, or a commitment to lifelong learning. This part of the essay should tie your experiences back to your aspirations and the kind of student you will be at UCLA.

UCLA Essay Prompt #5

In addressing this prompt, choose a challenge that had a profound impact on your life, particularly on your academic journey. Start by describing the challenge in detail. Was it a personal, social, financial, or academic challenge? Explain how this challenge affected you, especially in your academic pursuits. It’s important to be open and honest, as this adds authenticity to your narrative.

Detail the steps you took to overcome this challenge. This can include seeking support, developing new strategies, or pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone. Discuss the results of your efforts. Did you overcome the challenge entirely, or did you learn to manage it effectively? Reflect on what this challenge taught you about yourself and your approach to obstacles. How has it influenced your academic performance and perspective on learning? Conclude by explaining how this experience has prepared you for future challenges, particularly in a university setting like UCLA.

1. Identify a Meaningful Challenge: The student should choose a challenge that has genuinely impacted their life. This could be a personal hurdle (like a family issue or health challenge), an academic obstacle (such as struggling with a specific subject or project), or a social difficulty (like dealing with bullying or cultural adaptation). It’s important that the challenge is significant enough to have a real impact on their life and learning experience. The key here is authenticity; the challenge should be real and personal, not something chosen just because it sounds impressive.

2. Describe the Steps to Overcome the Challenge: This part requires detailing the specific actions taken to address the challenge. Did the student seek help from teachers, counselors, or mentors? Did they develop new study habits, engage in self-reflection, or take practical steps to improve their situation? This section should demonstrate problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to seek and utilize resources effectively. It’s crucial to show a proactive approach rather than a passive one.

3. Reflect on Personal Growth: The student should explain how overcoming the challenge contributed to their personal development. This could include gaining new perspectives, developing empathy, improving time management, or becoming more resilient. The focus should be on how the experience shaped them rather than just the achievement of overcoming the challenge. It’s about the journey and the lessons learned, not just the destination.

4. Link to Academic Achievement: Finally, the student needs to connect this experience to their academic life. How has overcoming this challenge affected their approach to learning? Did it lead to better study habits, a greater appreciation for education, or a specific academic interest? This part should tie the personal experience back to the academic context, showing how personal growth has translated into academic success or motivation.

UCLA Essay Prompt #6

Prompt #6 asks you to delve into an academic subject that excites you and how you have engaged with it. Begin by identifying the subject and explaining why it inspires you. Is it the complexity of the subject, its relevance to real-world issues, or the way it challenges you intellectually? Describe how you have pursued this interest both in and out of the classroom. This can include classes you’ve taken, books you’ve read, projects you’ve undertaken, or extracurricular activities related to the subject.

Provide specific examples of your engagement with the subject. Perhaps you conducted a research project, participated in a related competition, or started a club at school. Reflect on what these experiences have taught you and how they have deepened your understanding of the subject. Finally, discuss how this passion for the subject aligns with your future academic and career goals. How do you plan to continue exploring this interest at UCLA and beyond?

1. Identify Your Passionate Subject and Explain Why It Inspires You: Begin by pinpointing the specific academic subject that truly excites you. This could be anything from Mathematics to Literature, from Environmental Science to Political Science. Once identified, delve deeply into why this subject inspires you. Is it the challenges it presents, the real-world applications, or the way it shapes your thinking? Explain how this subject aligns with your personal values, interests, or long-term goals. This part of the essay should establish a personal connection between you and the subject, making it clear why it stands out among others.

2. Detail Your Academic Endeavors in This Subject: After establishing your passion for the subject, focus on how you have pursued this interest academically. This could include specific courses you’ve excelled in, projects or research you’ve undertaken, or exceptional achievements in this field. Highlight any unique learning experiences or challenges you’ve overcome. It’s essential to show not just your involvement but also your growth and development in this area. This demonstrates your commitment and ability to thrive in academic settings.

3. Explain Extracurricular Pursuits Related to the Subject: Expanding beyond the classroom, discuss how you have furthered this interest through extracurricular activities. This might include clubs, competitions, volunteering, internships, or personal projects related to the subject. For instance, if you’re inspired by Environmental Science, you might talk about your participation in a local environmental cleanup initiative or a sustainable gardening project you started. These activities should highlight your proactive approach and dedication to exploring your subject in diverse contexts.

4. Reflect on the Impact and Future Implications: Lastly, reflect on the impact this subject has had on your personal and intellectual growth. How has it shaped your worldview or influenced your future aspirations? Discuss how you plan to continue pursuing this interest at UCLA and beyond. This could involve specific programs at UCLA you wish to join, career paths you aim to explore, or societal contributions you hope to make through your chosen field. This reflection not only demonstrates self-awareness but also aligns your personal journey with the opportunities available at UCLA, showing a clear vision for your future.

UCLA Essay Prompt #7

This prompt is an opportunity to demonstrate your sense of social responsibility and community involvement. Start by describing what you did to improve your school or community. Was it a specific project, a long-term commitment, or a leadership role? Explain your motivation behind this effort. What inspired you to take action, and what were your goals?

Detail the steps you took and any challenges you faced. How did you plan and execute your ideas? What obstacles did you encounter, and how did you overcome them? Discuss the impact of your contribution. How did it benefit your school or community? Reflect on what this experience taught you about community, leadership, and collaboration. Conclude by discussing how this experience has shaped your perspective on community involvement and how you plan to continue contributing at UCLA.

1. Identify a Specific Initiative or Contribution: Encourage students to think about a specific project, activity, or effort where they played a significant role in making a positive change in their school or community. This could be anything from organizing a community clean-up, leading a fundraising event, starting a new club at school, to tutoring underprivileged students. The key is to focus on an activity where their direct involvement brought about a noticeable change or improvement.

2. Demonstrate Leadership and Initiative: Admissions officers are often impressed by students who show leadership qualities and the ability to take initiative. Students should detail how they identified a need or opportunity, took the lead in addressing it, and motivated others to join in. This might involve planning, organizing, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. For instance, if they started a recycling program at their school, they should describe how they developed the idea, organized a team, and implemented the program.

3. Reflect on Personal Growth: A compelling response to this prompt will also include a reflection on how this experience contributed to the student’s personal development. Did they learn new skills, overcome challenges, or gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their community? For example, a student who tutored others might discuss how this experience improved their communication skills and deepened their empathy and understanding of diverse learning needs.

4. Assess the Impact: Finally, students should assess and articulate the impact of their actions. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a large-scale impact; even small, meaningful changes can be significant. They should consider how their actions affected their school or community, what was different because of their efforts, and any feedback or results they observed. For example, if they organized a charity event, they could mention the amount of funds raised and how these funds were used to benefit a cause.

UCLA Essay Prompt #8

Prompt #8 is your chance to showcase aspects of your personality or experiences that make you stand out. Think about what unique qualities you possess that haven’t been highlighted in other parts of your application. Start by identifying these qualities. Are they related to your background, experiences, perspectives, or achievements?

Provide examples or anecdotes that illustrate these qualities in action. Perhaps you have a unique hobby, have overcome unusual challenges, or have a distinctive perspective on the world. Reflect on why these qualities are important to you and how they have shaped your identity. Discuss how these qualities will contribute to the UCLA community. How will they enable you to engage with and enrich the university environment? Conclude by tying these unique aspects of your identity to your potential as a UCLA student.

1. Unique Personal Qualities or Experiences: Students should reflect on what unique qualities or experiences they possess that haven’t been covered elsewhere in their application. This could be a unique perspective shaped by their background, a distinctive hobby or talent, or an unusual life experience. It’s crucial to explain how these qualities or experiences contribute to who they are. For instance, if a student grew up in a multicultural environment, they could discuss how this has given them a more inclusive worldview and an ability to adapt to diverse settings, which is valuable in a university environment.

2. Overcoming Challenges: This part should focus on any significant challenges or obstacles the student has overcome. The emphasis should be on resilience and personal growth. Students should illustrate how facing these challenges has prepared them for the rigors of college life and how it has shaped their character. For example, overcoming a learning disability, dealing with a family crisis, or succeeding in spite of financial hardships can be powerful narratives that demonstrate determination and strength.

3. Contributions to the University Community: Here, students should consider how they can contribute to the UCLA community. This could be through leadership roles, community service, cultural engagement, or other extracurricular activities. They should describe specific ways they plan to be involved on campus and how their past experiences have prepared them for these roles. For instance, if a student has been actively involved in environmental initiatives in high school, they could talk about how they plan to bring this passion to UCLA and contribute to sustainability efforts on campus.

4. Alignment with UCLA’s Values and Goals: Finally, students should research and understand UCLA’s mission and values and reflect on how these align with their own goals and aspirations. This is where they can demonstrate their knowledge about UCLA and show why they are a good fit for the university. For example, if a student is passionate about research and innovation, they could discuss how UCLA’s cutting-edge research opportunities align with their career aspirations.

How to Structure Your UCLA Essays

The importance of structure in essays, particularly for UCLA Essays 2023-2024, cannot be overstated. A well-structured essay serves as a roadmap for the reader, guiding them through your ideas and arguments in a coherent and logical manner. It ensures that your essay is not just a collection of random thoughts, but a cohesive narrative that effectively communicates your message. Structure helps to maintain the reader’s interest and makes your essay more persuasive and impactful. Now, let’s delve into three key points on how applicants can structure their UCLA essays:

Introduction: Setting the Stage

1. Contextual Opening: Begin your essay by setting the context. This could be a brief overview of the topic or a compelling anecdote that relates to the prompt. For UCLA Essays 2023-2024, the introduction should not only hook the reader but also provide a glimpse into what the essay will cover. For instance, if the prompt is about a leadership experience, start with a moment that epitomizes your leadership or the challenge you faced.

2. The Statement: Conclude the introduction with a clear statement. This is your opportunity to succinctly state what the essay will demonstrate or argue. For UCLA applicants, the thesis should reflect how their experiences or perspectives align with the values and expectations of the university.

3. Connection to UCLA Values: In the introduction, subtly weave in how your story or perspective aligns with UCLA’s ethos. This could be through demonstrating commitment to diversity, excellence, or innovation.

Body: Developing Your Story

1. Structured Paragraphs: Each paragraph in the body should focus on a single idea or aspect of your story. Begin with a topic sentence that clearly states the paragraph’s focus. This is particularly important in UCLA Essays 2023-2024, where clarity and depth of thought are valued.

2. Evidence and Examples: Use specific examples and experiences to support your points. In UCLA essays, these examples should not only illustrate your experiences but also reflect your self-awareness and growth. For example, when discussing a challenge, detail not just the situation, but also your response and learning from it.

3. Reflective Insights: Each body paragraph should include reflective insights. For UCLA applicants, this means going beyond describing what happened, to analyzing why it was significant. Reflect on how your experiences have shaped your worldview, values, and aspirations.

Conclusion: Tying It All Together

1. Future Orientation: Conclude with a forward-looking statement. How do your experiences and learnings prepare you for your future at UCLA? How do they align with your academic and career aspirations? This is your chance to show UCLA how your past experiences make you an ideal candidate for their future community.

2. Personal and Engaging Closing: End on a personal and engaging note. This could be a reflective statement or a rhetorical question that leaves the reader with something to ponder. It should resonate with the core theme of your essay and subtly reiterate your suitability for UCLA.

In essence, the structure of your UCLA Essays 2023-2024 should not just narrate a story but also convey a journey of personal development, aligning your experiences and aspirations with the values and opportunities at UCLA. A well-structured essay will ensure that your application stands out, showcasing not just your achievements, but also your potential as a future member of the UCLA community.

How Can Applicants Effectively Revise and Proofread Their Essays?

Effectively revising and proofreading essays is a critical step in the writing process, especially for UCLA Essays 2023-2024. This phase ensures that your essay not only meets the prompt’s requirements but also communicates your message clearly and effectively. Here are four key points to guide applicants in this process:

Layered Approach to Revision

1. Structural Review: Start with a high-level review of your essay’s structure. Does the essay flow logically from the introduction through the body to the conclusion? For UCLA Essays 2023-2024, it’s crucial to ensure that each paragraph contributes to the overall narrative and aligns with your thesis statement. Consider whether each section effectively supports your main argument or narrative.

2. Content Depth: Next, scrutinize the depth and relevance of your content. Are your arguments or narratives well-supported with concrete examples and personal reflections? In the context of UCLA applications, this means ensuring your essay not only recounts experiences but also delves into how these experiences have shaped you and prepared you for the challenges and opportunities at UCLA.

3. Voice and Tone Consistency: Ensure that your essay maintains a consistent voice and tone that reflects your personality. UCLA essays should sound authentic and personal, not overly formal or detached. The tone should match the message – a serious topic demands a serious tone, while a more light-hearted narrative can be more casual.

Detailed Proofreading

1. Grammar and Syntax: Check for grammatical errors, awkward sentence structures, and punctuation mistakes. For the essays destined for UCLA, the expectation is high regarding language proficiency. Use tools like grammar checkers, but also trust your judgment and understanding of the language.

2. Word Choice and Clarity: Ensure your word choice is precise and clear. Avoid jargon, unless it is relevant to your topic and you can explain it effectively. In UCLA Essays 2023-2024, the clarity of your expression can make a significant difference in how well your message is received.

3. Consistency in Formatting: Check for formatting consistency – this includes font size, style, and paragraph spacing. Although it might seem minor, consistent formatting contributes to the professionalism of your application.

Feedback Integration

1. Seeking External Opinions: After self-revision, it’s beneficial to get feedback from others. Teachers, mentors, or peers can provide valuable insights. For applicants to UCLA, this step is crucial as it offers a fresh perspective and can help identify areas that might need clarification or further development.

2. Balancing Feedback: While it’s important to consider external feedback, also balance it with your own voice and intentions for the essay. The final submission should still reflect your own thoughts and style, not just what others think you should write.

Final Review and Mindset

1. Rest and Revisit: After making substantial revisions, take a break from your essay. Approaching it with fresh eyes after some time can help you catch errors or inconsistencies you might have previously overlooked.

2. Read Aloud: Reading your essay aloud is a powerful technique to catch awkward phrasing and errors that your eyes might skip over. For UCLA essays, where the flow and coherence of the narrative are important, this can be particularly beneficial.

3. Mental Preparation: Recognize that revision is part of the journey towards crafting a compelling and effective essay. Approach it with a positive mindset, understanding that each revision brings you closer to presenting your best self to UCLA.

In summary, revising and proofreading UCLA Essays 2023-2024 is not just about fixing errors but refining and enhancing your message. It’s about ensuring that your essay accurately and compellingly represents your experiences, achievements, and aspirations, aligning them with what UCLA seeks in its prospective students.

The Importance of Supplemental Essays

Essays play a pivotal role in the college admissions process, particularly for prestigious institutions like UCLA. Here are some key points highlighting their importance:

1. Showcasing Personal Attributes: UCLA essays offer a unique platform for students to showcase their personal attributes, beyond academic achievements and extracurricular activities. This is crucial because UCLA, like many top universities, seeks well-rounded individuals. Essays allow students to demonstrate qualities like resilience, leadership, creativity, or a commitment to service. By effectively communicating these traits, students can distinguish themselves from other applicants with similar academic profiles.

2. Illustrating Fit with UCLA’s Values: Through essays, applicants can align themselves with UCLA’s core values and mission. This is particularly important as UCLA looks for students who not only excel academically but also resonate with the university’s ethos, such as a commitment to diversity, innovation, and public service. By articulating how their personal goals and experiences align with these values, students can make a compelling case for why they are a perfect fit for UCLA.

3. Demonstrating Writing Skills and Intellectual Maturity: The ability to express thoughts clearly, coherently, and persuasively is a skill that UCLA highly values. Essays provide a window into a student’s writing ability and intellectual maturity. A well-crafted essay that demonstrates critical thinking, analytical skills, and an ability to reflect on personal experiences can significantly boost a student’s chances of admission .

4. Providing Context to the Application: Essays allow students to provide context to their application, particularly in areas that grades and test scores cannot cover. For instance, students can explain unique circumstances that affected their academic performance, or discuss personal challenges they’ve overcome. This context can be vital for admissions officers when making decisions, especially in a highly competitive pool of applicants.

In summary, for students aiming to get admitted to UCLA during the 2023-2024 period, crafting compelling, thoughtful, and well-written essays is as important as their academic achievements. These essays are a critical tool for communicating their unique story, alignment with UCLA’s values, and readiness for the academic and social environment at UCLA.

How Do the UCLA Essays Compare to Other Top Universities?

UCLA’s Supplemental Essays for 2023-2024 present a unique set of challenges and opportunities for applicants, distinct in several ways from the essays required by other top universities. A notable feature of UCLA’s prompts is their focus on personal growth, community involvement, and the demonstration of practical skills and talents.

Unlike some other top schools, such as Harvard or Stanford , which often ask for essays reflecting intellectual vitality or deep academic interests, UCLA places significant emphasis on understanding applicants’ personal journeys and real-world experiences. For instance, UCLA’s prompts about overcoming challenges or contributing to the community mirror its commitment to social awareness and diversity, inviting students to share stories of personal resilience or community engagement.

Another distinguishing aspect of UCLA’s Supplemental Essays is the breadth of topics they cover. While schools like Yale or Princeton might offer a range of prompts that allow students to delve deeply into a particular intellectual interest or creative endeavor, UCLA’s prompts are more comprehensive, touching on various aspects of a student’s life and experiences.

This comprehensive approach seeks a holistic understanding of the applicant, from leadership and creativity to academic passions and personal challenges. It allows students more flexibility to showcase different facets of their personality and experiences, making their application stand out in a diverse applicant pool. This approach reflects UCLA’s desire to understand applicants as multifaceted individuals with a range of interests and experiences.

In comparison with other top universities like MIT or Columbia, which may have prompts geared more towards academic and intellectual prowess, UCLA’s essays seem to prioritize real-world applications of knowledge and skills. They encourage students to reflect on how their experiences, whether in a classroom, in a community, or through personal challenges, have prepared them for the future. This emphasis aligns with UCLA’s ethos as an institution committed to practical impact and societal contribution.

UCLA’s prompts also allow for a more narrative and storytelling approach, which can be particularly advantageous for students who have strong personal stories and experiences that don’t necessarily fit into the traditional academic excellence mold. This makes UCLA’s essays not just a test of writing ability, but a platform for students to truly express who they are and what they value.

Why Choose UCLA?

Choosing the right university is a decision that sets the stage for your future, and UCLA is a choice that offers endless possibilities. This prestigious institution is not just a place to earn a degree; it’s a diverse community where innovation, inclusion, and opportunity converge to provide a dynamic learning environment.

At UCLA, you’ll find yourself in the company of some of the most talented students and educators in the world. The university prides itself on a tradition of academic excellence. With a wide range of programs and resources, UCLA ensures that every student has the tools they need to succeed in their field. Whether you’re drawn to the arts, sciences, or humanities, you’ll be supported by cutting-edge research and a culture that encourages intellectual curiosity.

Beyond academics, UCLA is known for its vibrant campus life. With over 1,000 student organizations, you can connect with peers who share your interests and passions. The university’s location in Los Angeles, a global hub for culture, technology, and business, provides countless internships and job opportunities that can give you a head start in your career.

Choosing UCLA means joining a legacy of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers who have left their mark on the world. It’s a place where you can not only dream about the future but also take the first steps toward making those dreams a reality.

Final Thoughts

essays are not just a formality; they are a critical element of your UCLA application. They offer a unique opportunity to present yourself as a three-dimensional individual, not just an applicant on paper.

These essays can bridge the gap between your academic achievements and the person you are outside the classroom. They provide context, showcase your writing skills, and, most importantly, share your story. In the admissions process, where every detail counts, well-crafted essays can be the deciding factor that helps you stand out in a pool of highly qualified candidates.

AdmissionSight , a college consulting firm, offers personalized assistance to students in their college admissions journey. We help you create a strategic plan for your application process, identify suitable schools aligned with your academic and personal goals, and prioritize your application strategy.

Our experts review your application, providing constructive feedback to enhance its quality and uniqueness. We also assist in crafting compelling essays that reflect your personality and achievements, guide you through the writing process, and offer feedback on drafts. In addition, we provide interview coaching to boost your confidence and readiness for college interviews, offering tips on professional presentation and answering common questions.

We aid in optimizing your extracurricular activities to align with your interests and goals, emphasizing leadership and initiative. Overall, AdmissionSight offers valuable guidance and support to increase your chances of college acceptance. With a strong network and a success rate exceeding 75% in the past decade, book a free initial consultation today!

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education

Everything You Need to Know About Interact Club

Fun Facts About UCLA: A Deep Dive into One of America’s Top Universities

20 Fun Debate Topics for High School Students

Discover the Best Film Schools in California this 2024

Everything You Need to Know About an AB Degree

How to Get a 1500+ on the SAT: Insights and Tips

Best High School Clubs for Ivy League Admissions

Discover the Best Marine Biology Colleges in California

How Many Letters of Recommendation for College Do I Need to Submit?

Best Colleges for Creative Writing: What You Need to Know About Majors for Writers

A Deeper Look into Life After College

Joining the National Business Honor Society (NBHS)

How Long After Interview to Send Thank You: Tips + Email Templates

Top Target Schools for Investment Banking

Honors Classes: Are They Worth Your Time?

How to Write a Graduation Speech: Tips and Examples

Duke Legacy Acceptance Rate

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

Everything You Need to Know...

Fun Facts About UCLA: A...

20 Fun Debate Topics for...

Discover the Best Film Schools...

How to Get a 1500+...

Best High School Clubs for...

Discover the Best Marine Biology...

How Many Letters of Recommendation...

Best Colleges for Creative Writing:...

A Deeper Look into Life...

Joining the National Business Honor...

Sign up now to receive insights on how to navigate the college admissions process..

Admissions Counseling

• Academic & Extracurricular Profile Evaluation

Copyright © AdmissionSight 2024

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

Major Preparation in the School of Theater, Film and Television

The School of Theater, Film and Television offers the following majors:

• Film and television

Both majors provide a comprehensive introduction to the history, theory, and practice of these art forms within the context of a liberal arts education.

Applicants to the school must have a minimum 3.2 GPA at the time of application and by the time of entrance must have attained junior standing (60 semester or 90 quarter units) and have completed their general education coursework — either the school’s General Education requirements, the IGETC at a California Community College, or the General Education requirements while a student at another UC campus. Completion of the School of Theater, Film and Television’s foreign language requirement before arriving at UCLA is strongly encouraged but not required. In addition to the UC application, applicants are required to submit a supplemental application .

• Minimum GPA: 3.2
• IGETC required: Yes
• Double-major possible: No
• Supplemental application required: Yes
• Theater: December 7, 2023
• Film and Television: January 11, 2024

Major Preparation for Individual Majors

Undergraduates in theater study the history of world and American theater, contemporary theater issues, acting and performance, playwriting and analysis, design, directing and theater production and complete a sequence of advanced courses in your chosen emphases along with a capstone project.

Applicants interested in the theater major must choose one of the following emphases on the UC Application: acting, design/production, musical theater or integrated studies.

Students interested in the directing or playwriting sequences should apply via integrated studies. Those interested in stage management should select design/production. 

In addition to the general UC Application, a supplemental application is required. This includes materials such as a headshot, writing samples, transcripts, resumes, etc. Applicants will be contacted ONLY if more information is needed and an interview or audition is required.

Note: Transfer students cannot change to the theater major after admission to UCLA.

Additional information may be found at the theater B.A. page .

Preparation for the Major

• Acting, design, play analysis or theater history (recommended)

Film and Television

Undergraduates in film and television study the history of film and television, screenwriting, animation and film and television production, including cinematography, editing, directing the camera, and digital media and tools. Undergraduates complete a senior concentration in one area of specialization and a professional internship.

Additional admission requirements include a personal essay, a critical essay, a creative writing sample, a life challenge essay and two letters of recommendation. Films, DVDs, and links are not accepted. Prior experience is not required.

Note: Transfer students cannot change to the film and television major after they transfer to UCLA.

Additional information may be found at the film and television B.A. page .

• One course in theater (recommended)

School of Theater, Film & Television Phone: (310) 206-8441 Theater email: [email protected] Film and Television email: [email protected]

First-year requirements

• Subject requirement (A-G)
• GPA requirement
• Admission by exception
• English language proficiency
• UC graduation requirements

Additional information for

• California residents
• Out-of-state students
• Home-schooled students

Transfer requirements

• Understanding UC transfer
• Preparing to transfer
• UC transfer programs
• Transfer planning tools

International applicants

• Applying for admission
• English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Passports & visas
• Living accommodations
• Health care & insurance

AP & Exam credits

Applying as a first year

• Filling out the application
• Dates & deadlines

Personal insight questions

• How applications are reviewed
• After you apply

Applying as a transfer

Types of aid

• Grants & scholarships
• Jobs & work-study
• California DREAM Loan Program
• Middle Class Scholarship Program
• Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan
• Native American Opportunity Plan  
• Who can get financial aid
• How aid works
• Estimate your aid

Apply for financial aid

• Tuition & cost of attendance
• Glossary & resources
• Santa Barbara
• Campus program & support services
• Check majors
• Freshman admit data
• Transfer admit data
• Native American Opportunity Plan
• Apply for aid
• You will have 8 questions to choose from. You must respond to only 4 of the 8 questions.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.
• Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you. However, you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.

Keep in mind

• All questions are equal. All are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
• There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions. It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.  
• Use the additional comments field if there are issues you'd like to address that you didn't have the opportunity to discuss elsewhere on the application. This shouldn't be an essay, but rather a place to note unusual circumstances or anything that might be unclear in other parts of the application. 

Questions & guidance

Remember, the personal insight questions are just that—personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help. The important thing is expressing who you are, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC. 

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities?

Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn't necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?

How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there is a talent or skill that you're proud of, this is the time to share it.You don't necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?

Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that's geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you; just to name a few.

If you choose to write about educational barriers you've faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you've faced and what you've learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?

If you're currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family? 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider:  Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can't get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs and what you have gained from your involvement.

Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?

Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider:  If there's anything you want us to know about you but didn't find a question or place in the application to tell us, now's your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?

From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don't be afraid to brag a little.

Writing tips

Start early..

Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions.

Write persuasively.

Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make.

Use “I” statements.

Talk about yourself so that we can get to know your personality, talents, accomplishments and potential for success on a UC campus. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses.

Proofread and edit.

Although you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling or sentence structure, you should proofread your work and make sure your writing is clear. Grammatical and spelling errors can be distracting to the reader and get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate.

Solicit feedback.

Your answers should reflect your own ideas and be written by you alone, but others — family, teachers and friends can offer valuable suggestions. Ask advice of whomever you like, but do not plagiarize from sources in print or online and do not use anyone's words, published or unpublished, but your own.

Copy and paste.

Once you are satisfied with your answers, save them in plain text (ASCII) and paste them into the space provided in the application. Proofread once more to make sure no odd characters or line breaks have appeared.

This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application. Your responses can only add value to the application. An admission decision will not be based on this section alone.

Need more help?

Download our worksheets:

• English [PDF]
• Spanish [PDF]

Transfer Credit Processing

Transferability of coursework taken at other institutions is determined by the UCLA Registrar’s Office and Undergraduate Admission. Both follow UC-wide transfer guidelines.

New Students

All transfer coursework and examination credit completed by incoming freshman and undergraduate transfer students is reviewed, and applied to the degree audit, by the Registrar’s Office. If all admission transcript deadlines are met, the review is completed in time for first-quarter (orientation) enrollment.

New student degree audits are finalized by the start of the first UCLA regular-session term.

Continuing Students

Continuing students who wish to transfer coursework to UCLA should meet with a school counselor or departmental major adviser, before enrolling at another institution, to determine if those courses apply toward graduation requirements. This includes coursework taken outside UCLA during summer terms. Coursework is applied to the degree audit within four weeks of the date the transcript was received by UCLA.

Transferable Courses

Students may consult the Transferology website to see how past coursework has transferred to UCLA. Transferology is an advisory tool only, and does not guarantee transferability. Actual course transferability is subject to change without notice, at the discretion of the UCLA Registrar’s Office and Undergraduate Admission.

Guidance for courses not listed on Transferology is not given until a final transcript is received by UCLA.

Students should follow these guidelines to have courses considered for credit:

• attend a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, or a recognized international university
• take academic courses substantially similar to those offered by the University of California
• take all courses in proper sequence
• not take courses that repeat material already completed in another college- or university-level course
• not take courses concurrently with enrollment in UCLA regular-session (fall, winter, spring) courses

Final approval of how coursework transfers to UCLA is made only when a complete, official transcript with grades has been received. When coursework has been completed, the offering institution must send the transcript to UCLA Undergraduate Admission, 1147 Murphy Hall, Box 951436, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1436.

Related Content

• Transfer credit academic policies
• Transfer credit and final degree audit
• UC Statement of Transfer Credit Practices (pdf)

Possible ESL Writing Requirement For Incoming Multilingual Transfer Students

Esl writing requirement.

Most transfer students have typically satisfied UCLA’s Writing I and II requirements at their transfer institution (and have therefore also satisfied the Entry-Level Writing Requirement). However, some multilingual transfer students may be held for an additional ESL Writing Requirement and are required to sit for the English as a Second Language Placement Exam (ESLPE) during their first quarter at UCLA. Transfer students who are held for the ESLPE include:

• Those who have not satisfied IGETC and
• Those held at the discretion of Transfer Admissions.

Depending on the results of the ESLPE, a multilingual transfer student may be held for as many as 3 English Composition courses in order to satisfy the requirement. See the “How To Satisfy the ESL Writing Requirement if You are Held For It” section below for more information on which classes multilingual transfer students may need to complete.

Placement Exam – ESLPE

The ESL Placement Exam is a one-hour written exam in response to a prompt. It is scheduled once per quarter and no individual exams are administered. You may take the exam only once. Learn more about the ESLPE, including when it will take place and how to register for it here .

How To Satisfy the ESL Writing Requirement if You are Held For It

ESL Requirement : The only way for UG transfers to satisfy the ESL Writing Requirement—if held for it—is to take the ESLPE and successfully complete any required coursework as early as possible during your first year at UCLA. NOTE: You cannot substitute any other courses (either at UCLA or elsewhere) for the ones you are required to take. Since some courses are not offered every quarter, you may delay your graduation if you do not complete the coursework right away.

The chart below outlines the courses a transfer student may be required to take to satisfy an ESL requirement (up to three depending on the ESLPE results). None of these courses can be taken concurrently with any other; each must be passed with a ‘C’ before taking the following one.  

Course Availability

PLEASE NOTE THE ACADEMIC YEAR AVAILABILITY OF THESE COURSES!  

EC 1A is only offered in fall; EC 1B is only offered in fall and winter; EC 2i is usually offered all 3 quarters . None of these courses are currently offered in summer and there are no substitutions. To ensure your graduation is not delayed, you are encouraged to meet this requirement as soon as possible!

• Archived Spotlight Posts
• Student Testimonials
• Open Positions
• Program Leadership
• Undergraduate Writing Center
• Undergraduate Writing Requirements
• Professional Writing Minor
• Undergraduate Courses
• Undergraduate Course Learning Objectives
• Undergraduate Writing Awards
• Non-UCLA International Students
• Enrollment for Spring 2024 in English Comp 3/3D for Cluster Students
• English Language Requirements & Resources for International Graduate Students
• TA Training
• Graduate Certificate in Writing Pedagogy
• Graduate Writing Center
• Academic Year ESL
• Summer ESL Program
• UCLA’s Informed Placement Process (IPP)
• English as a Second Language Placement Exam (ESLPE)
• TOP Exam Schedule & Registration
• Campus Partners
• Community-Engaged Writing Courses
• Writing Summer Institute for High School Students
• Get Involved

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK
• Trojan News
• Trojans in the Pros

USC Football: Former Trojans QB Cut From NFL Team

Sam garcia | 7 hours ago.

• USC Trojans

Former USC quarterback, Kedon Slovis, has been reportedly cut from the Colts before the start of the regular season. The news was reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero via X on Sunday morning. 

The #Colts released rookie QB Kedon Slovis, per source. The onetime USC freshman sensation was 16-of-22 passing with a 90.9 rating in preseason. — Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 25, 2024

Pelissero also reported when the Scottsdale, Arizona native signed a free-agent deal with the Colts after the 2024 NFL draft.

Former BYU QB Kedon Slovis — the onetime USC freshman sensation — is signing with the #Colts , per source. pic.twitter.com/0zfvQrMkVH — Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 27, 2024

Slovis completed 16-of-22 passes for 149 passing yards across three preseason games. He will now be sent on waivers and available for another team to claim. If no other team picks him up, the Colts could re-sign Slovis to their practice squad.

According to the Colts depth chart , the four remaining quarterbacks include starter Anthony Richardson, second-string Joe Flacco, third-string Sam Ehlinger, and fourth-string Jason Bean. Bean is the only rookie of the quartet. 

Slovis joined the Trojans in 2019 after graduating from high school a semester early, making him available for spring camp. He emerged as USC’s No. 2 quarterback as a true freshman, but after the starting quarterback, JT Daniels endured a season-ending knee injury in the season opener , Slovis took over the starting role. 

His first season in Los Angeles was filled with accolades, such as being the fifth USC true freshman quarterback in history to start in a game . He ranked third nationally in completion percentage (.719), seventh in passing efficiency (167.6), ninth in passing yards (291.8), 10th in completions (23.5), 14th in passing touchdowns (30), 18th in total offense (287.1) and 23rd in points responsible for (15). These metrics broke multiple records ranging from NCAA freshman records to Pac-12 records to USC program records. 

By the end of the season, he was named the 2019 Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year , becoming the fourth Trojan to earn the honor. He played in all but one game and started in 11 out of 13.

As a sophomore during the COVID-19 2020 season , Slovis started in all six games as a team captain and earned a first-team All-Pac-12 selection. He ranked first nationally and in the Pac-12 in completions (29.5). Slovis also led the conference in passing yards (320.2), total offense (310.7), completion percentage (.670), and points responsible for (17). 

Slovis finished his junior season at USC , recording starts in nine games, completing 193-of-297 passes for 2,153 yards, throwing 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions. After three seasons, he was ranked seventh all-time at USC with 7,576 passing yards and fifth all-time with 58 career touchdown passes. Slovis threw five 400-yard passing games, which is a Trojan record.

By the end of the 2021 season, Slovis lost his starting spot to freshman quarterback Jaxson Dart, which prompted his decision to enter the transfer portal. Following three seasons at USC, Slovis had two remaining years of eligibility. He transferred to the University of Pittsburgh for his senior season, and then to BYU for his fifth season.

Samantha Garcia is a student at the University of California, Los Angeles. She is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Professional Writing. She is also a sports writer for the Daily Bruin at UCLA.

Courses Available

Legal analysis, writing, and research for ll.m.s.

Music Composition

Graduate student resources.

Program Information

Students in the M.A. and Ph.D programs can specialize in Composition or in Composition for Visual Media. The cross-pollination between the specializations distinguishes the program. All students are expected to acquire and master advanced skills, which involves continued intensive study of music theory, counterpoint, orchestration, analysis, technology, performance, the traditional Western canon and its history, in tandem with the study of popular, jazz, rock, folk, and non-Western traditions.

Both the M.A. and Ph.D programs emphasize the collaborative relationship between composers and performers in such a way that a simulated professional experience is achieved. Composition students have the opportunity to take film music courses and world music for film. Film music composers have the opportunity to broaden their horizons by being part of a true composition program, and this gives composers stylistic depth and breadth.

By the end of the M.A., students will be thoroughly prepared to enter the professional arena, graduating with the tools they need to compose music for multiple purposes, be it for a concert piece, a film, or an opera. The Ph.D. program is designed in a two-fold manner: graduate composers are trained to become both practicing artists in their field and to become mentors for the next generations of artist-scholars.

As you progress through your programs, pause to explore the resources we’ve gathered to assist you in navigating your studies. This page contains program checklists, petitions and forms, exam details, enrollment requests, and recital information for all our graduate students in The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.

We aim to support you in achieving your academic aspirations and succeeding in your educational journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office with any questions you may have. Let’s work together to create a roadmap for your success and celebrate your achievements along the way!

Office of Student Affairs 1642 Schoenberg Music Building UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music 445 Charles E Young Drive E Los Angeles, CA 90095-1616 Phone:  310-206-5802

Graduate Music Composition Forms and Petitions

Graduate Departmental Course Petition

This petition is used to substitute courses taken within the department or an outside department and have them count towards a degree required course. Students are only able to substitute courses taken at UCLA only. Students requesting transfer of credit from an outside institution must use Graduate Division’s Graduate Degree Petition.

Music Department 596 Request Form

This form serves as a course proposal for enrollment into the 596 courses directed to individual studies. Prior to completing this petition, the student must contact the instructor they plan to complete their assignment with to confirm they will be available to work with the student in the requested quarter. This petition must be approved by relevant faculty and filed with the SAO prior to enrollment.

MA Committee Request Form

Use this form to submit a MA Committee request in Spring quarter of the student’s 2nd year. SAO Note: Graduate Division regulations for master’s committees are at the bottom of the form.

Nomination Master’s Committee Form, Graduate Division

This form is used to nominate your master’s committee with the Division of Graduate Education. Once all signatures are completed, the SAO will submit the form to the Division of Graduate Education. Allow two weeks for processing after the nomination has been submitted by the SAO to the Graduate Division.

PhD Exam Committee Request For Departmental Written Qualifying Exam

Students will select their qualifying exam committee and constitute it amongst the department using this form.

PhD Doctoral Committee Request & Dissertation Approval Form

This form is used to request the department approval of the student’s doctoral committee and dissertation topic. This will be submit in conjunction with the Nomination of Doctoral Committee Form.

Nomination Doctoral Committee Form, Graduate Division

This form is used to nominate your doctoral committee with the Division of Graduate Education. Once all signatures are completed, the SAO will submit the form to the Division of Graduate Education. Allow two weeks for processing after the nomination has been submitted by the SAO to the Graduate Division.

Language Petition  

* Not a DocuSign form * Once you have completed your language requirement, please complete this form, sign, and submit to Bria Russ.

Composition Specialization

A reading knowledge of one foreign language is required. Students must select from French, German, Italian, or Spanish.

Students may fulfill the language requirement by:

• Completing the third level of the regular undergraduate series or equivalent
• Passing the 1G language study course with a grade of B (3.0) or better
• Passing the UCLA Foreign Language Placement Test in one of those languages.
• Students whose native language is not English may use English as a foreign language.

Composition for Visual Media Specialization

There is no foreign language requirement.

MA Committee Constitution, MATC, and MA Thesis

Step 1: MA Committee Nomination

It is the students’ responsibility to put together a faculty committee to guide their thesis in consultation with the committee chair. The committee is composed of three faculty members, consisting of:

• The major teacher.
• Two (2) members nominated by the student.

At least two (of the three) faculty must be members of the Academic Senate (the SAO will have a list of Senate faculty members).

Step 2 : Submit the MA Committee Request Form

The student must contact all of the committee members personally. Once the student has received confirmation that their three faculty members agree to be on their committee, the student must submit a MA Committee Request Form.

Step 3 : Submit the Nomination Master’s Committee Form, Graduate Division

After the departmental form and dissertation is approved, the student must complete the Nomination of Master’s Committee Graduate Division form. This form is completed vis DocuSign and submitted to the Division of Graduate Education by the SAO for approval.

Step 4: Master Advancement to Candidacy Form (MATC)

This is the process of certifying that the student either has or will have satisfied the degree requirements by the end of the quarter. The Division of Graduate Education Master’s Advancement to Candidacy Petition will be initiated by the SAO no later than the second week of the quarter in

which the student expects the award of the degree.

Step 5: Submit the MA Thesis and File

The thesis will be an original composition of significant length and or breadth. For Composition for Visual Media Specialization, that original composition will be cues for a work of visual media (which may be an original or a pre-existing work), or possibly cues for more than one work of visual media.

Once the student’s thesis is approved, the student can File Your Electronic Thesis or Dissertation (ETD)

M.A./Ph.D and Ph.D Qualifying Exams and Dissertation

The M.A./Ph.D. and Ph.D. exam takes place in the first two weeks of the Winter quarter of the third year for entering Ph.D. students, and the fourth year for entering MA students. The four written examinations are spread over a two-week period but should be completed within three weeks. Repeat examinations may be scheduled in consultation with the exam committee after a stipulated period of time (typically after one entire year). Students will take MUSC 598 (4 units each, with members from their committee) to fill their 12 unit requirements through the Oral Qualifying Exam and MUSC 599 (12 units) once the student has Advanced to Candidacy.

Step 1: Submit the PhD Exam Committee Request For Departmental Written Qualifying Exam

Composition Specialization exam committee consists of:

• The faculty members who taught Music 254 or Music 255,
• The faculty members who taught Music 256
• The faculty members who taught the 200-level Musicology course whose topic covers some aspect of music after 1900
• The faculty members who taught the student’s principal breadth adviser.

Composition Visual Media Specialization exam committee consists of:

• The faculty members who taught Music 255
• The faculty members who taught Music 260A or Music 260B

Step 2: Ph.D. 4 Pieces Examination

Composition Specialization consists of:

• Analysis of pre-1900 music (based upon coursework in either Music 254 OR 255)
• Analysis of post-1900 music (based upon coursework in Music 256)
• Topics in 20th-or 21st-century music (based upon their 20th-or 21st-century Musicology seminar)
• The breadth area (based upon coursework in ONE of their two breadth area courses).

Composition Visual Media Specialization consists of:

• Analysis of pre-1900 music (based upon coursework in Music 255)
• Topics in music for visual media (based upon coursework in either Music 260A OR 260B)

Step 3: Defense of the WQE Departmental Oral exam #1

Schedule with the WQE exam committee to meet and go over the exams let SAO know which date is scheduled.

• Taken in the third or fourth week of winter quarter
• Could be an hour to 2 hours
• Separate the WQE from OQE about a week.

Step 4: Defense of the WQE Departmental Oral exam #2

A presentation of all aspects of four compositions specified by the composition faculty in the previous year, including (but not limited to) the historical context, analyses, and significance of the works to other works in similar or identical genres.

• The Four Pieces Exam is given before the entire composition faculty.
• This examination is scheduled by the composition faculty for the fifth or sixth week of winter quarter.

Step 5: Dissertation Proposal

The dissertation proposal should include a detailed description of the expected length, instrumentation, and goals of the proposed dissertation composition, including the source of text, if applicable. It should also include a detailed description of the proposed monograph; the monograph must demonstrate the student’s ability to perform original, independent research and constitutes a distinct contribution to knowledge in the principal field of study.

Step 6: Nominate Doctoral Committee

The composition of the doctoral committee must adhere to these rules:

• The chair (or one of the co-chairs) must come from the home department and be a ladder faculty member of the Composition Division.
• A minimum of two of the four members need to be from one of the three UCLA School of
• Music Departments (Adjuncts may serve if they are certified and approved by the Committee on Degree Programs).
• A third member needs to be a UCLA faculty member, though need not be in the School of Music
• Two of the three UCLA-affiliated members must be at the Associate rank or higher.
• The fourth member can be either from UCLA or its academic equivalent at another accredited university or college (for non-UCLA, must have senate faculty appointment).

These four members of the committee must be in the professorial ranks. If the student’s primary teacher is not in this category, they must be included as a fifth member of the committee. The student must contact all of their committee members personally.

Step 7: Committee Appointed by the Division of Graduate Education (DGE)

NOTE: Students CANNOT take the OQE until their Doctoral committee is officially constituted by the Graduate Division.

Step 8: Schedule University Oral Qualifying Exam (OQE)

Students should coordinate their University Oral Qualifying Exam date with their committee. Once you have confirmed the structure of your committee and nominated the committee formally with the Division of Graduate Education, you may then hold your University Oral Qualifying Exam.

Step 9: Advance to Candidacy (ATC)

If you receive a pass on your OQE from your committee, you will Advance to Candidacy (ATC). The student’s Committee Chair will need to contact the SAO to submit the Oral Qualifying Exam and ATC Request form for the Division of Graduate Education Approval.

Step 10: Dissertation Writing and Dissertation Year Award

After the student has formally advanced to candidacy (ATC), they begin work on their dissertation and enroll each quarter in MUSC 599 under the direction of their Committee Chair.

Helpful information: Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities, such as the Dissertation Year Award , in Winter quarter when the application deadline is posted.

Step 11: Dissertation Defense and File

Students are required to schedule their dissertation defense with their committee and let the SAO know the scheduled date. Once passed, the student will File Your Electronic Thesis or Dissertation (ETD) .

Students who no longer plan to take courses, be employed by UCLA, receive financial support, or access certain campus services may submit the Filing Fee Application . Students may use the Filing Fee application only if they were registered for the previous academic term, and satisfy the eligibility criteria.