Applying to the University of California

If you are planning on applying to one or more UCs, you will need to fill out their special application. You only need to fill out and submit one application, no matter how many UCs you are applying to, but you will need to pay a separate application fee for each school you check off.
The UC application filing period is November 1st through 30th. It's easy to procrastinate, but you will do yourself (and the admissions officers) a favor by submitting your application early.
UCs do not ask for letters of recommendation.
SATs: Unlike many colleges, UCs require 2 SAT II subject tests in addition to the SAT I or ACT. You must take these tests no later than December of the year you apply.

Check out their How to Apply page for a detailed checklist.

The UC application asks for 2 essays, together totaling 1,000 words or less. Here are the prompts:

• Respond to both prompts, using a maximum of 1,000 words total.
• You may allocate the word count as you wish. If you choose to respond to one prompt at greater length, we suggest your shorter answer be no less than 250 words.
• Stay within the word limit as closely as you can. A little over — 1,012 words, for example — is fine.

Prompt #1

Describe the world you come from — for example, your family, community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.

Prompt #2

Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are?

Click here for the University of California homepage.