How important are SAT scores for UC admissions?

I'm pretty interested in applying to some University of California schools, but I'm unsure about how much weight they put on SAT scores. Should I prioritize my SAT score, or focus more on other aspects of my application? Any insight would be super helpful!

SAT scores are no longer considered in the University of California (UC) admissions process. In May 2020, the UC system voted to phase out SAT and ACT test requirements, and they are now officially test-blind for all applicants. This means that UC admissions officers will not review standardized test scores at all, even if you choose to submit them in your application.

Given this change, you should shift your focus to other aspects of your application, such as maintaining a strong GPA, taking challenging courses, engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities, and writing compelling personal insight essays. UC schools evaluate applicants holistically, so they'll consider your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities to get a well-rounded sense of who you are and what you can bring to their campus.

Make sure to highlight any significant achievements, leadership roles, or community impact in your extracurricular activities. When crafting your personal insight essays, showcase your unique perspective, experiences, and how they have shaped your growth and aspirations. Ultimately, you want to present a strong and well-rounded application to demonstrate your fit for the UC schools you're considering. Good luck with your college application process!