I'm eyeing UC Berkeley for my undergrad studies. Does anyone have an idea how they handle major-related acceptance rates? Are some majors more difficult to get into than others? Specifically interested in Engineering if that helps.
UC Berkeley, like many other public universities, does have varying acceptance rates across different majors, especially in very popular or competitive programs such as Engineering. Unfortunately, the university doesn't publicly disclose acceptance rates broken down by each specific major, so it's difficult to provide precise figures.
Berkeley's College of Engineering is quite competitive, with its overall acceptance rate generally lower than the university's total acceptance rate. This is mainly due to a high volume of applicants attracted by the college's distinguished programs and reputation. Keep in mind that program competitiveness can also vary between different majors within the College of Engineering itself.
However, don't let this discourage you. If Engineering is your passion, focus on strengthening your application. Highlight your experiences such as relevant coursework, Tier 1 and 2 extracurriculars, competitions, or internships in the field. Also, spend time crafting thoughtful essays that really underscore your motivation and commitment to this course of study.
Remember, while acceptance rates can give you a general idea of the competitiveness of a program, they shouldn't deter you from applying if it's a program that aligns with your academic and career goals. It's important to craft a well-rounded application that not only demonstrates your proficiency in, and passion for, the field, but also shows how you could contribute to the university community.
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