Q: How do I apply for fall 2010?
A: The application filing period for fall 2010 is November 1-30, 2009. Please access UC's online application.

Different applications are used for freshmen and transfer students.

Q: What's the application fee?
A: The fee for applying to UC Santa Cruz is $60 ($70 for international applicants). If you apply to more than one University of California campus at the same time, submit $60 ($70 for international applicants) for each UC campus you apply to.

Q: What are the application deadlines?
A: Fall Quarter 2010: November 1–30, 2009

Note: Applicants interested in winter admissions should check with the Admissions Office at (831) 459-4008 before applying, since UC Santa Cruz may not be open to winter quarter applications.

Q: Do I need to send in references and recommendations?
A: Please do NOT send in any letters of recommendation or references. The university does not require or solicit letters of recommendation on behalf of applicants for undergraduate admission. Such letters are not forwarded to the admissions office with your UC Undergraduate Application.

If you already have letters of recommendation and references, however, we recommend that you keep them in case you'd like to appeal an admissions decision.

Q: How important is the personal statement?
A: While academic criteria (grades, courses taken, test scores) are most important, the personal statement is also a very important part of the application and selection process. You should view it as a personal interview on paper – it is your chance to let UCSC know who you really are.

The personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your talent, leadership, initiative, and intellectual curiosity. It can also be used to present any obstacles, opportunities, achievements, and/or special circumstances that have affected your education and your life. When writing the personal statement, try to answer the questions: What did I learn? What have I done with the opportunities I have?

The personal statement section of the application contains two prompts (questions), and you must answer both of them, using approximately 1000 words total. You may allocate the word count as you wish, but if you respond to one prompt at greater length, we suggest that the shorter answer be no fewer than 250 words.

UC video with tips to help you write your personal statement

Additional information about the personal statement

Q: What is your AP policy?
A: The University of California grants credit for all College Board Advanced Placement Tests on which a student scores 3 or higher.

Q: What do I have to do to establish residency in California?
A: Residency requirements are at reg.ucsc.edu/students/residency.htm. The official determination of residency happens after you are admitted: A series of questions to determine your residency status is included in the online Statement of Intent to Register. You will be notified if you are classified as a non-resident. Please e-mail the Registrar’s Office at reg_fees@ucsc.edu if you have further questions about residency.

Q: When are acceptance notices sent out?
A: For fall quarter acceptance, notices are sent March 15–31 for freshmen and March 15–May 1 for transfer students.