UCLA Acceptance Rate: How competitive?

Hi! Does anyone have info on UCLA's acceptance rate? I'm trying to gauge how competitive it is to get in. Also, if you've been admitted, what do you think stood out in your application that got you in?

UCLA is highly competitive with an acceptance rate that typically hovers around 9-11%. Although this rate may vary slightly from year to year, it's indicative of the level of competition applicants face when applying to UCLA.

As for what might help an applicant stand out and get admitted, it's important to have a strong academic profile, including solid grades in rigorous courses and, although UC schools are currently test-blind, having strong test scores certainly won't hurt your chances at other colleges. Showcasing your passion and commitment through extracurriculars is also key—having a "spike," which is a highly developed specialty in a particular area can set you apart from other applicants.

In terms of essays, avoid clichéd topics and aim to provide a unique, personal perspective to help the admissions committee understand who you are and what you can bring to the UCLA community. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well and can speak to your abilities, maturity, and other qualities can also play a significant role in your admission.

Lastly, while there's no one-size-fits-all answer to what gets a student admitted to a competitive school like UCLA, demonstrating leadership, resilience, a willingness to take on challenges, and a commitment to contributing positively both inside and outside the classroom will all help you put your best foot forward. Keep in mind that each application is looked at holistically, and different applicants may be admitted for different reasons based on their unique strengths and experiences.