Founded in 1965, University of California-Irvine. is a Public college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 27,331 full time undergraduate students, and 5,423 full time graduate students.
The University of California-Irvine Academic calendar runs on a Quarter basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 18:1. There are 1179 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of California-Irvine include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
40%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
70
SAT Range
1060-1330
ACT Range
24-30
Admissions at UCI are considered More Selective, with ,123% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 8 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
0% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 100% were in the top quarter, and 96% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of California-Irvine.
384 Students rated on-campus housing 3.7 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
333 Students rated off-campus housing 3.2 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
407 Students rated campus food 3.5 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
411 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
413 Students rated class size 3.6 stars. 17 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
410 Students rated school activities 3.9 stars. 30 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
417 Students rated local services 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
413 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
University of California-Irvine REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University of California-Irvine?
193 Students rated University of California-Irvine
Angelica
Prospective04/27/2025
The campus is very welcoming, and provides a variety of majors that are available to students. As a first generation, only child low income student there are a lot of resources available to hispanic and first generation students.
Andrea
04/23/2025
The University of California Irvine is a welcoming and lively community where students are provided many different kinds of resources and opportunities. At UCI there is plenty of diversity in its students and in activities that anyone can partake it.
Adrian
Prospective04/22/2025
What draws me most to UC Irvine is how it seamlessly blends rigorous academics with a collaborative and creative campus culture. As someone who truly thrives at the intersection of science and art, I’m excited by the opportunity to pursue Materials Science and Engineering in a setting that not only values interconnected exploration, but actively encourages it through programs like the Campuswide Honors Collegium and the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program.
In addition, Irvine's focus on undergraduate research and innovation is particularly attractive to me as a person who is interested in pursuing the science of ceramics—more specifically the materials engineering of glazes and clay bodies. Being able to conduct research with professors on actual problems, while being stimulated by UCI's vibrant artistic communities would enable me to grow both as a future engineer and an artist.
Equally valuable to me is culture and community. I've had to relocate many times, so I value open, accommodating environments. UCI's commitment to sustainability, the diversity of the student population, and the presence of clubs like ceramics and Magic: The Gathering make me feel that I won't just belong — I'll thrive. I'm especially attracted to the idea of building community around common interests and creative spaces while continuing to be challenged in the classroom and lab.
Carla
Prospective04/22/2025
Irvine is such a unique place. There is plenty of opportunity for students all over campus. The nature is beautiful, full of life. The medical institute is built to help all pre-medical students succeed.
Damien
Prospective04/20/2025
I am not a student at UCI yet; however, after entering an event and receiving a tour within the campus, I was quickly fascinated by the environment as a whole. The entire campus was clean; there was no trash, no plastic, and there was a beautiful park that is within the center of the campus. The students there were very supportive and was full of a positive environment. It would be an honor to be a student in UC Irvine with the exact positive mindset and uplift someone's mood every day. It is a beautiful campus full of diversity and a variety of options in majors such as business, sciences, arts, etc. Living the anteater life seems great, and I would gladly be one of them soon!
Kade
04/19/2025
University of California Irvine has a vibrant campus, strong STEM programs, and a chill but academically driven environment. Its closeness to beaches and internships is a huge plus. Campus is clean and safe, though social life can be quieter compared to other UCs.
Ashley
04/19/2025
One main thing about UCi is the campus being really nice and extremely safe. I am from the bay and coming here I didn't know how I feel about it. However, there are a lot of clubs and organizations here that makes you feel welcomed. There is definetly a place where you belong here but you will just have to branch out a little.
Stephanie
Prospective04/16/2025
I want to attend UCI because of its nursing program. I want to help people and be able to shine some kind of light on them during their difficult times. I love the fact that I am guaranteed entry to their nursing program as a Freshman, and I won't have to worry about reapplying. I also want to attend UCI because of its beautiful campus. I want to be able to go to the beach to meditate or walk around, whether with friends or by myself, when I feel overwhelmed or stressed. I would love a chance to attend the school with the help of scholarships or grants.
Natalia
04/15/2025
University of California-Irvine is a very nice campus and offers a wide range on intellect for its students. I am seriously considering attending this school next fall. I hope this school can offer an environment that I will thrive in and opportunities beyond academics.
Jul
Prospective04/14/2025
Attending the University of California, Irvine is my first choice because it allows me to stay close to my family in Orange. Family is my top priority, and being able to live at home while pursuing a high-quality education is a blessing I do not take for granted. The ability to commute to campus means I can support my loved ones emotionally and financially while focusing on my academic goals.
Beyond location, UCI offers a strong reputation for academic excellence, especially in the sciences and pre-med fields. As someone aspiring to become a doctor, I am drawn to UCI’s research opportunities, its connection to UCI Health, and the supportive academic environment. The faculty are known to be approachable and dedicated to student success, and I’m excited about the possibility of getting involved in clinical and research experiences that will prepare me for medical school.
The campus culture at UCI also stands out to me—diverse, inclusive, and centered around community growth and collaboration. Its commitment to community health aligns with my values, and I believe that UCI will shape me not only as a student, but also as a compassionate future healthcare provider.
Overall, UCI represents the perfect combination of staying close to my support system while being challenged academically. I truly believe it’s the best place for me to grow, serve, and succeed.
Sadie
Prospective04/13/2025
There are a multitude of reasons as to why I want to attend the Unviersity of California-Irvine; the main one being its renowned nursing program and overall excellence in medical-based classes and opportunities. I want to be a nurse in the future, so UCI would give me superb training that I could use in my career. However, I also live in Southern California, and the campus is far enough away from home yet still in a place that I know very well. The location would provide a substantial change to my life where I would get the opportunity to grow and explore while retaining the comforts of not being a completely foreign area to me. The weather there is amazing, and the caliber of students and staff would continuously push me to learn and achieve more so that by the time I enter the work field, I would be readily prepared for the challenges I will face. The school is beautiful as well, and I know the scenery and resources open to students would enable me to thrive and be the best academic version of myself possible. Lastly, the students there seem kind-hearted and motivated, which would encourage me to act the same. Being surrounded by students who all want the best for themselves and for each other is an uplifting experience that would make the four years memorable and would fulfill my heart's contents.
Ahmad
Prospective04/10/2025
University of California–Irvine is my second-choice school, but that doesn’t mean I’m not excited about the opportunities it offers. UCI stands out to me because of its strong academic programs—especially in the sciences and healthcare fields, which directly align with my career goal of becoming a dentist. The school’s focus on research, innovation, and hands-on learning makes it a place where students can truly grow. I’m especially drawn to the pre-health advising and the resources available for transfer students, which shows that UCI is committed to student success at every level.
Beyond academics, UCI’s campus setting is beautiful and well-structured. The park-like layout, diverse community, and active campus life make it an exciting and welcoming place. I also appreciate that UCI is close to home, so I can still stay connected to my family while pursuing a quality education. The student organizations, volunteer programs, and career development opportunities also offer a great balance between academic focus and personal growth.
The main reason UCI isn’t currently my first choice is because Saddleback College offers a more practical starting point for me. It’s affordable, flexible, and gives me the chance to take a Pharmacy Technician course while earning transferable credits. If UCI offered more hands-on certifications or had programs that blended academic study with immediate practical skills—especially for students entering healthcare—it would absolutely move to the top of my list.
Overall, I would rate University of California–Irvine a strong 9 out of 10. It’s an excellent university with a lot to offer, and I fully intend to transfer there after completing my studies at Saddleback. UCI may be my second step, but it plays a first-class role in my journey toward a successful career in dentistry.
Jesus
Prospective04/10/2025
I'm interested cause the drama program that they have.
Samina
Prospective04/03/2025
I’m drawn to the University of California, Irvine because of its strong academic programs, particularly in the sciences. UC Irvine’s biology and pre-health programs are well-known, which aligns perfectly with my goal of becoming a general dentist. I also appreciate the research opportunities that the school offers, allowing students to work alongside faculty in labs and get hands-on experience.
In addition to academics, UC Irvine has a vibrant campus community with many student organizations and extracurricular activities. I’d be excited to join groups that support students in the health field and maybe even explore photography or badminton, which are hobbies I enjoy.
Ramila
04/02/2025
The University of California - Irvine is overall a pretty good school, compared to other schools in the area. To start, the campus is absolutely beautiful, surrounded by tons of nature and amazing architecture. In addition, the location is in one of the most central parts of Orange County, with a less than 5-minute walk to shops and food and is also highly safe. As a woman, I walked around alone after my night classes and felt safe.
Sadly, with how large classes are, most professors do not care to engage and therefore create an impersonal environment. Unless you really push to go out of your way to talk to them, they will never know your name. The TAs are amazing though! Lots of the material is expected to be learned outside of class, and during lectures, it is mainly for discussing the confusing details.
You can expect there to be very sweet and friendly people on campus, but expect a lot of competitive people. Not everyone is willing to become friends and study together, but luckily the classes are so big you are bound to find a friend!
In hindsight, I loved my time here, and a lot of the things I learned were actually useful in my future.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of California-Irvine is 40%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
It is tough when you start out, trying to get used to your schedule, locating classes, and getting used to the workload. Becoming to involved in keeping those balanced won't do much to help your own sanity. With that I would certainly go with the cliche but true, "Don't be afraid to be yourself." A lot of college is about finding yourself and setting the desirable niche where you can grow as an individual and develop a strong stance. Follow what you want and don't be afraid about an "in-group" , because there aren't any in college. It is important not to mold yourself into someone you want people to like because there are plenty of people that will come and go, but the ones that like you for who you are will stay and most likely for the rest of your life. Don't be afraid in the beginning to show people who you are. College is an all around learning experience so you need to make sure you set aside time to learn about yourself.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
The University of California - Irvine is a top all-around school, a school where one can find boundless possibilities and quality education that will surely help a student mature and grow.
I feel that UC Irvine is open to everybody who applies. I'm not saying that there are qualifications but come to UC Irvine with your game face on because everybody here is pretty competetive in their classes and the professors are pretty helpful.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
It really does feel like a bubble, because the troubles outside of Irvine may seem very irrelevant and distant. Perhaps because of it, it is a slightly more conservative campus and within the city, and it is more difficult to garner passion and energy from the city's citizens and the university's students. We don't have much school spirit, and there are a lot of commuters. Anywhere you go you will need a car, public transportation doesn't help. Cost of living is slightly higher, and everything closes around 10pm.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
Our mascot is undoubtedly one of the most haphazardly chosen mascots in the history of naming: we are Anteaters. Personally, I love it but it does require a taste.
I have a couple of professors that know my name. They tend to make the effort to bond with the students if they are approached. Professors in the School of Social Sciences are really fun and have many experiences they like to share. Studying is directly proportional to whether you go to class AND pay attention. Class participation is common but very dependent on the professor asking for it. UCI students are very relaxed and tend to leave intellectual conversations to the classroom or for their organizations. Competition is not clearly seen, but it exists. UCI gives plenty of opportunities to get students into the job field they like.
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
A lot of people called UCI a university for Chinese students or something to that extent. Also, UCI is not considered a 'party school,' but a commuter school where students come and go.
UCI allows for a lot of on campus leadership positions. Students truly can find various ways to get involved as fast as their fall quarter freshman year. Due to the diversity of the campus, people are opened to more ethnicities and races. One thing I would like to see in the near future would be a football team. Athletics are strong at UCI, and just last year (2006-2007) they were awarded the DIVISION I-AAA ALL-SPORTS TROPHY (given to the best all-around sports program in Division I, AAA). The school is growing but currently is at a nice amount of students with 20,000 or so. Not college town but UCI is literary part of Newport Beach, it should be called UC Newport. On campus the best place to go is the student center or right across the street to the University Center. Irvine is a rather calm but nice city in the OC. The beach is just 10 minutes away. Three malls (South Coast Plaza, Fashion Island, and Irvine Spectrum) within miles.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
The numbers might speak for themselves, but the fact of the matter is that the student population at UCI is by far the most diverse in the UC system. This allows for more opportunities to meet more people and of different backgrounds.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
I often talk about how beautiful the campus is. Aldrich park is overly gorgeous and is a wonderful place to eat, study, and chat with friends. I also often talk about the safety of Irvine. One of safest cities around! I really enjoy the idea of feeling safe, especially when walking back to my car after a late night class gets out.
If you live in the dorms in Mesa Court you could dine at Mesa Commons. Everyone gets to see this dining location during orientation, but it is like a buffet. You could eat anything you want. If you live in Middle Earth you could eat at Pippin Commons. I could tell you more about Pippin since I live in Middle Earth. Pippin is a lot bigger than Mesa and in my opinion, a lot nicer. They throw these big events for the holidays and you get better food options on these days, plus there are performances by talented singers and dancers from UCI. I'm sure they do these at Mesa too, but like I said, I cannot really tell you much about Mesa. Pippin is also buffet-style. Near Middle Earth, there is also Brandywine Commons. It is the smallest dining area, but sometimes they have really good food. You could go to any of the dining areas although you are not a resident from that particular area.
Besides dorm dining options, we have a lot of different places to get some food here or around campus. At the Student Center we have: Starbucks, Jamba Juice, Anthill Pub and Grille (I have not been here yet, but I hear it is a very popular place to hang out and eat), Bene’s pasta, Organice Greens-to-go, Panda Express, Quizno’s, Topio’s Pizza (very good), Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, and Wendy’s. We also have Phoenix Food Court, where they sell burritos and other kinds of food. We have BC’s Cavern Food Court and Subway. There are also small places for coffee, snacks, and hot chocolate around campus, such as Café Espresso and Espress Yourself Coffee Cart. At the University Town Center we have Taco Bell, In-N-Out, and Jack in the Box. You could also take the shuttle to Koba and Del Taco. There are unlimited dining options a short drive away from campus as well, including Italian and French restaurants.
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I decided to come to UC Irvine the first time I came to visit the campus. The beauty of the campus just captivated me. Also, knowing that they had the major I wanted convinced me even more. Also, its pretty cool living a few minutes from the beach.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
68% of students attending University of California-Irvine receive some sort of financial aid.
41% were awarded federal grants.40%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
