Type to search
Santa Cruz, California

University of California, Santa Cruz | UCSC

ucsc.edu
Ask a question
Add to my list
  • Overview
  • Cost & scholarships
  • Majors
  • Admission Requirements
  • Essay Prompts

University of California, Santa Cruz | UCSC's 2020-21 Essay Prompts

Read our essay guide

Select-a-Prompt Short Responses

Required
350 words

Please respond to any 4 of the 8 questions below.We realize that not all questions apply to all applicants, so be sure to select the 4 questions that you believe give us the best information about you.All 8 questions are given equal consideration in the application review process. Responses to each question should be between 250-350 words.


Option 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.


Option 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.


Option 3

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


Option 4

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


Option 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?


Option 6

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


Option 7

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


Option 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?

Read our essay guide to get started. Submit your essay for free peer review to refine and perfect it.
Submit or review an essay

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

Join thousands of students getting and giving peer feedback on college essays—all for free!
Submit or review an essay