Hey guys, I'm an out-of-state student and UC Berkeley is my dream school. What's the acceptance rate for students like me? Is it much more competitive than for California residents?
UC Berkeley's overall acceptance rate varies from year to year, but it's typically around 11%. However, the rate does differ for in-state versus out-of-state applicants. The acceptance rate for out-of-state students is typically lower, often reported to be around 8 - 10%. This is because UC Berkeley, like all University of California schools, has a mandate to prioritize California residents.
It's also important to note that UC Berkeley has a holistic admissions process and considers many other factors beyond just residency. You'll need to have strong grades, rigorous coursework, well-rounded extracurricular activities, and strong essays to enhance your chances of admission.
Remember, while acceptance rates can give a general idea of the school's selectivity, they don't determine whether you'll be accepted or not. I encourage you to focus on putting together the strongest application possible that showcases your skills, passions, and what makes you unique.
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