2025 Updates on University of California Study Abroad Policies

2025 Updates on University of California Study Abroad Policies

Studying abroad is an exciting prospect, and if you’re considering the University of California (UC) system for your academic journey, here’s what you need to know about the new updates for 2025. 📚✨

✔️ Changes in Admission Policies

Standardized Testing Policies

The UC system continues to ease its standardized testing policies. They have firmly stated that there are no plans to reinstate standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT as requirements for admission. This means that standardized testing will not play a role in future admissions processes, allowing for a more holistic evaluation of applicants’ achievements. 🎉

Dual Admission Plan

The new dual admission plan targets California high school graduates. If a student has a GPA of at least 3.0 but has not completed the required 15 A-G courses, they will still gain admission to one of the six UC campuses. However, they must successfully finish the missing courses at a community college before transferring to UC. This pathway provides a unique opportunity for students to catch up while ensuring they do not miss the chance for higher education! 🎓

✔️ Updates on Available Majors

New Programs Introduced

• UC Berkeley: The newly established College of Computing, Data Science, and Society (CDSS) will include majors in Computer Science, Data Science, and Statistics, alongside a new Education major.
• UC Davis: A new undergraduate program in Business has been introduced, featuring majors in Finance, Accounting, Marketing and Business Analytics, Management, and Strategy.
• UC San Diego: The newly formed School of Computing, Information, and Data Science (SCIDS) will focus on expanding offerings in Artificial Intelligence, Computing, and Data Science.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

To apply for undergraduate programs at UC, prospective students should meet the following academic characteristics:

• GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.4 (or higher) is required, with no grades lower than a “C”.
• Course Requirements: Applicants must complete the UC-recognized A-G courses, including:
• 2 years of History/Social Science
• 4 years of English
• 3 years of Mathematics (suggested: 4 years)
• 2 years of Laboratory Science (suggested: 3 years)
• 2 years of Foreign Language (suggested: 3 years)
• 1 year of Visual and Performing Arts (if possible)
• 1 year of elective courses preparing for University-level education

Language Requirements

• TOEFL: A minimum total score of 80 is required, though certain schools or programs may have higher requirements.
• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is essential.

Application Materials

These should include the application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or application essay. ✍️

Graduate Admission Requirements

Academic Background

For graduate programs, the following criteria should be met:

• Degree: A bachelor’s degree is required.
• GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is generally expected, though competitive programs may require higher GPAs.

Language Requirements

• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90 (iBT), with a writing score of at least 24.
• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0, with no section below 6.5.

Document Requirements

Graduate applicants must submit recommendation letters, personal statements, resumes, and relevant essays. 🌟

If you’re looking for more information on applying, feel free to reach out! Good luck to all applicants! 🎉