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20 May 2025

5 minutes read

UCB Average GPA, SAT Score and Admission Requirements for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

20 August 2024

5 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • UCB average GPA for admitted students typically ranges between 3.85 and 4.00, reflecting the university’s high academic standards.
  • Competitive applicants exceed the UCB average GPA, showcasing rigorous coursework, extracurriculars, and strong personal statements.
  • While UCB average GPA is crucial, holistic admissions also consider essays, test scores, and leadership experiences.

The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is one of the most elite institutions in the United States. Being a member of the prestigious UC system, it has competitive admission standards and a stringent selection process.

The students have to fulfill several requirements, such as GPA, SAT and ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. To increase your opportunity for admission to UC Berkeley, knowing the GPA and SAT score requirements, and other important factors is essential.

What is UC Berkeley Average GPA Requirement and What It Means for Applicants?

The avg. GPA of admitted students at UC Berkeley is 3.89. This high GPA requirement at UC Berkeley shows the academic excellence that applicants are expected to possess.

ucb average gpa 1

As GPA is difficult to alter in a short time, students need to concentrate on good grades throughout high school.

UC Berkeley GPA StatisticsValue
Avg. GPA3.89
Minimum GPA3.0 (UC requirement)
Highest GPA (Competitive Applicants)4.0+

A GPA of at least 3.8 places you below average at UC Berkeley, meaning you will need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate. Students get an advantage if they have taken AP or IB classes, as these demonstrate academic rigor.

UC Berkeley SAT Score Requirements

SAT scores for UC Berkeley are an essential component of the admissions process. The average SAT score required for admission is 1415. However, competitive applicants often aim for the 75th percentile SAT score, which is 1530.

SAT Score RangePercentile
25th percentile SAT1300
75th percentile SAT score1530
Score for UC Berkeley (Average)1415

While UC Berkeley SAT requirements have changed over time, students must consider how SAT and ACT scores impact their application. If your SAT score is 1300, your chances of acceptance decrease, so taking the SAT again and aiming for a higher SAT score is recommended.

What are ACT Scores and What is Their Role in UC Berkeley Application?

ACT scores are another way to showcase academic performance. Though UC Berkeley is test-optional, students who submit high ACT scores can strengthen their application.

ACT Score RangePercentile
25th Percentile ACT29
75th Percentile ACT35

A well-above-average ACT score increases your chances of acceptance at UC Berkeley, especially for students with a GPA below 3.89.

Admission Process and Application Requirements for Berkeley Application

The requirements for admission to UC Berkeley go beyond GPA and test scores. Students must submit a successful application that meets the university’s expectations.

ucb average gpa 2

Key Admission Requirements at UC Berkeley:

  • UC Application Form – The Berkeley application form must be submitted before the deadline.
  • GPA Score – A high GPA (at least 3.8) is required for acceptance.
  • Standardized Test Scores – Though test-optional, students with high SAT or ACT scores have an advantage.
  • Letters of Recommendation – Strong recommendations enhance the application.
  • Personal Statement – A well-crafted personal statement reflects your passion and qualifications.
  • Extracurricular Activities – Demonstrating leadership and involvement can make a difference.

International students must also meet additional requirements, including language proficiency tests.

Acceptance Rate at UC Berkeley and Chances of Admission

The acceptance rate at UC Berkeley is highly competitive. In 2022, UC Berkeley’s acceptance rate was approximately 14%.

Admission YearAcceptance Rate
202214%
Previous Years15-17%

With such a low acceptance rate, students must work diligently to improve their scores and GPA. If your GPA places you below average, increasing your SAT score and adding 160 points can improve your chances.

SAT and ACT: Which Test Should You Take for Admission to UC Berkeley?

Most students question whether to sit for the SAT or ACT. Because UC Berkeley SAT requirements are lenient, either test may be submitted.

Here’s the comparison:

FeatureSATACT
Scoring Range400-16001-36
SectionsMath, Reading, WritingMath, Reading, Science, English
Time3 hours2 hours 55 minutes

If your SAT score is currently low, taking the SAT test again and gaining points on your score will work in your favor. The same holds true for ACT scores.

Tips for Getting Into UC Berkeley: GPA and SAT Requirements

If you are hoping to gain admission to UC Berkeley, the following should be your priorities:

  • Raise Your GPA – 3.89 GPA and above is perfect.
  • Better Your SAT Scores – Shoot for the 75th percentile SAT score (1530).
  • Make Your Extracurriculars Shine – Leadership activities and accomplishments are important.
  • Craft a Powerful Personal Statement – Demonstrate your interest and ambitions explicitly.
  • Satisfy Admission Requirements – All the requirements for applications should be met.

Top 10 Universities Similar to UC Berkeley in the USA

For students looking for similar academic competitiveness and admission criteria in schools, the following ten universities are very similar to UC Berkeley:

UniversityAverage GPATuition FeesPopular Courses OfferedAverage Salary After Graduation
UCLA3.9$44,830 (out-of-state)Engineering, Business, Medicine$72,000
University of Michigan3.88$55,334 (out-of-state)Computer Science, Law, Medicine$75,000
UC San Diego3.85$44,169 (out-of-state)Biotechnology, Engineering$70,000
University of Virginia3.87$53,666 (out-of-state)Political Science, Finance$73,000
University of North Carolina3.85$39,338 (out-of-state)Journalism, Business$69,000
University of Chicago3.9$62,241Economics, Mathematics$85,000
Northwestern University3.89$62,391Communication, Law$82,000
Carnegie Mellon University3.86$61,344Robotics, Computer Science$87,000
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign3.85$34,316 (out-of-state)Engineering, Business$72,000
University of Southern California3.9$64,726Film, Business, Medicine$80,000

Conclusion

Becoming UC Berkeley’s college destination demands focus, intellectual rigor, and strategic planning. As much as the avg. GPA of admitted students stands at 3.89, other considerations, such as SAT scores, ACT scores, and extracurriculars, are equally important in the admission decision.

Since the GPA and score are critical, students should take their existing SAT score and add 160 points to boost their chances. If done in a proper manner, using proprietary admissions strategies and good application materials, students can optimize their chances of being accepted into UC Berkeley.

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FAQs

What is the UCB average GPA for undergraduate admissions?

The UCB average GPA for undergraduate admissions typically falls around 4.18, reflecting the highly competitive nature of admissions at the University of California, Berkeley.

Does the UCB average GPA differ by major or department?

Yes, the UCB average GPA can vary by major; for instance, engineering and computer science majors often report a higher UCB average GPA due to competitive applicant pools.

Is the UCB average GPA weighted or unweighted?

The UCB average GPA is usually a weighted GPA, factoring in honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses to reflect academic rigor in high school.

How does the UCB average GPA affect transfer student admissions?

For transfer students, the UCB average GPA typically ranges between 3.7 and 3.9, especially for impacted majors, making GPA a critical factor in transfer admissions.

Can students with lower than the UCB average GPA still get admitted?

Yes, students with a GPA lower than the UCB average GPA can still be admitted by showcasing strong test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and personal achievements.

Where can I find the most updated UCB average GPA statistics?

The most recent UCB average GPA statistics are available on the official UC Berkeley admissions website and annual Common Data Set reports.

How important is meeting or exceeding the UCB average GPA for international students?

Meeting or exceeding the UCB average GPA is crucial for international students, as it strengthens their application in a highly selective admissions process.

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