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UCLA vs UC Berkeley, Which is Better in 2025?

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7 min
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Uploaded on
Sep 2, 2024
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Last updated on
Feb 3, 2025
Uploaded on
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Last updated on
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Which is Better in 2024?
Pick only better than the best!

The beautiful state of California is home to two prestigious institutions that consistently stand out in the academic arena. The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Both universities are renowned for offering top-tier education and excellent career opportunities, making them prime choices for students worldwide. 

With their global reputations and unique strengths, it's worth exploring which of these two institutions might be the better fit for your academic and career aspirations. When comparing UC Berkeley vs UCLA, it's important to consider various factors, including their global standings. Without any further ado, let’s find out more such factors:

UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Overview

Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley has redefined the world through groundbreaking intellectual, economic, and social contributions. With over 1,800 faculty and more than 42,000 students, it is ranked as the #1 Public University Worldwide by U.S. News and World Report. Over 475 community organizations see Berkeley student involvement. UC Berkeley holds a QS World University Ranking of #12 in the 2025 rankings.

On the other hand, established in 1920, UCLA is a prestigious public research university with more than 47,700 students and 4,100 faculty members. Known for its sustainability leadership, UCLA is ranked #42 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and continues to be a global innovator. Here's a quick comparison table of UCLA vs UC Berkeley.

UCLA Vs UC Berkeley: Overview

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Aspects UCLA UC Berkeley
Location Los Angeles Berkeley
Student-to-Faculty Ratio 18:1 19:1
Classes (< 20 Students) 48% 54.7%
Total Undergraduate Students 31,636 30,799
Total Graduate Students 12,953 11,528
Total Number of Students 44,589 45,057
Acceptance Rate (2024) 9% 11%
U.S. News Ranking (2024) #15 #1
QS 2024 Ranking #42 #12
THE 2024 Ranking #14 #10
Average % Receiving Financial Aid 68% More than 60%
Freshman Retention Rate 97% 97%

UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Acceptance Rate

With both UCLA and UC Berkeley ranking among the top 50 universities according to the QS Rankings, many students find it challenging to choose between these two prestigious institutions. Breaking down the acceptance rates, the UC Berkeley acceptance rate is 11.3%, making it the second-most selective of the two. Meanwhile, the UCLA acceptance rate is 9%, which is the more competitive, making it the harder institution to gain admission to.

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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Key Parameters

When comparing UCLA and UC Berkeley, two of California's premier public universities, it's essential to consider several key parameters that define the student experience and academic journey. Here are some of the key differences between UC Berkeley vs UCLA:

1. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Academics

When comparing UC Berkeley vs UCLA, academics should be the primary focus. It's essential to thoroughly research and understand the faculties, facilities, departments, subjects, and curriculum of each university before making a final decision. So, which university stands out academically - UCLA or UC Berkeley? 

UC Berkeley offers over 350 degree programs across 130 academic departments and 80 interdisciplinary research units. At UCLA, students can choose from a vast array of programs across various disciplines. The university provides opportunities to pursue a minor along with a major degree, or even to earn a master’s degree as an undergraduate. Let’s explore their academic offerings to see which one is a few steps ahead.

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Program UC Berkeley UCLA
Top Programs Offered Architecture, Astronomy, Bioengineering, Business Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Research, Film
Research Facilities 80 interdisciplinary research units Cutting-edge design & media arts, health policy
Popular Courses Public Affairs, Environmental Science Film & TV Production, Chemical Engineering

2. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Campus Life

Campus life is a vital yet often underrated aspect when comparing UC Berkeley vs UCLA. The environment and opportunities that a university campus offers can greatly influence a student's overall learning experience, playing a key role in deciding whether UC Berkeley is better than UCLA. Here’s a quick comparison of what each campus has to offer:

UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Campus Life
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Aspect UCLA UC Berkeley
Veterans Resource Centre (VRC) Yes Yes (Military and Veteran Services)
LGBTQ Resource Centre Yes No
Parent & Family Association Yes No
Fraternity & Sorority Relations (FSL) Yes No
Student Organizations, Leadership & Engagement Yes Yes
Sponsorship Opportunities Yes No
Study Abroad Program No Yes
Online Classes No Yes
Disability Services No Yes
On-Campus Day Care No Yes
Course Options Full-Time Only Full-Time & Part-Time
Housing Yes Yes

3. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Admission Requirements

The next thing we dive into in this UCLA vs UC Berkeley duel is their admission requirements. Without admission, there`s no university life at all! How streamlined an admission process is has an impact on the student's mental inclinations in deciding between Berkeley vs UCLA! Given is a comparison between UCLA vs UC Berkeley’s admission requirements:

UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Admission Requirements
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Criteria UCLA UC Berkeley
GPA Requirement  3.9 or more 3.89
SAT Score Range  1405 - 1600 1415 - 1600
ACT Score Range  27 - 34  31
Educational Background  Four-year bachelor’s degree, high school diploma, transcripts Comparable bachelor’s degree, high school diploma, or 15 years of study with 3.4 GPA in English
GPA Requirement (Overall)  At least B (3.0 on a 5.0 scale) Medical Records
English Proficiency  7.0 IELTS, 87 TOEFL (iBT) Letters of Recommendation, Insurance
Additional Requirements  GMAT/GRE scores, Statement of Purpose, Curriculum Vitae GMAT, GRE Subject Test, GRE general or MCAT scores (3.0 on 4.0 scale for PG courses)

4. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Cost of Education

Of course, comparing the financial burden for UCLA vs UCB is an important step while considering higher education abroad! Although both these universities have different education costs, the below table will help you plan your budget and decide accordingly between UCLA Vs UC Berkeley debate.

UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Cost of Education
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School
Tuition & Fees Book & Supplies
On-Campus Off-Campus
UCLA $43,003
$1,314
$17,599  $15,638 
UC Berkeley $44,066 $1,091 $20,530  $15,241
Average $43,535 $1,203 $19,065 $15,440
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Additional Factors

While the details above for UC Berkeley vs UCLA provide a comprehensive overview, additional pertinent information such as weather patterns, housing availability, financial aid opportunities, and campus culture can significantly distinguish between the UCLA vs UC Berkeley experiences.

5. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Financial Aid

Financial aid options at UCLA and UC Berkeley differ significantly. Here's a detailed comparison:

UCLA Financial Aid

UCLA's cost of attendance varies based on residency. For California residents, the total cost is $38,517, while non-residents face a cost of $71,091. Forbes ranks UCLA as the fourth-best college in the USA, and nearly half of UCLA students receive grants or scholarships to offset their tuition costs. The Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan ensures that California residents from families earning less than $80,000 annually pay no tuition or fees.

UC Berkeley Financial Aid

At UC Berkeley, the cost of attendance is $46,008 for California residents and $78,582 for non-residents. Over half of UC Berkeley students receive financial aid, making it a strong value proposition, just behind UCLA in providing value for money. The University of California Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan also applies here, covering tuition for students from families earning less than $80,000 per year, after grants and scholarships are applied.

UCLA Vs UC Berkeley Financial Aid

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Financial Aid UCLA UC Berkeley
Type Grants Grants
Scholarships Scholarships Scholarships
Work-Study Work-Study Prizes and Honors
Loans Loans Loans
Work-Study Programs Work-Study Work-Study
Special Programs - Innovative Berkeley Aid Programs
Average Aid Received Around $22,000 Around $28,000
Students Receiving Aid About 68% More than 60%

6. UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Housing

When it comes to housing, UC Berkeley vs UCLA offers different experiences that can significantly impact your college life. From on-campus dorms to off-campus options, each university has its own set of accommodations, availability, and living conditions. The below comparison will help you understand the housing landscape at UC Berkeley vs UCLA.

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Housing Type UC Berkeley UCLA
Freshman Housing Guarantee Guaranteed for 95% of freshmen Guaranteed for 98% of freshmen
Specialized Housing Themed living, including Global Environment Afrikan Diaspora, Sustainability, Creative Collective
Average Housing Cost $17,000 per year (on-campus) $18,500 per year (on-campus)

UCLA Housing

UCLA is committed to ensuring that incoming freshmen are well accommodated, with an impressive 98% of freshmen residing on campus. UCLA guarantees up to four years of university housing, making it the first institution within the UC System to offer such a comprehensive housing guarantee. However, for students who prefer off-campus housing near UCLA, several excellent options provide convenience, affordability, and proximity to campus. Here are some top off-campus student housing options at UCLA recommended by amber.

  1. 1539 Beloit Ave, Los Angeles
  2. 1265 Barry Ave, Los Angeles
  3. 1751 Malcolm Ave, Los Angeles
  4. 1515 Colby Ave, Los Angeles
  5. 1450 S Barrington Ave, Los Angeles

UC Berkeley Housing‍

Conversely, UC Berkeley provides on-campus housing for approximately 95% of its freshmen, but only about 22% of the entire undergraduate population resides on campus.  However, many students prefer off-campus housing at UC Berkeley for more independence, flexibility, and access to the city’s vibrant culture.Top Off-Campus Housing Options Near UC Berkeley:

  1. Identity Logan Park, Berkeley
  2. University Park, Berkeley
  3. Bosco, Berkeley
  4. Stonefire Berkeley, Berkeley
  5. Standard Berkeley, Berkeley
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Application Process and Important Dates

The application procedures for UC Berkeley vs UCLA share many similarities, though there are variations in deadlines for certain courses. Below is an overview of the comprehensive application process and important dates for each university.

UCLA Important Dates

1. August 1: UCLA Application Opens

2. October 1: The deadline to file Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Dream Act applications begins for all applicants. Registration for the GPA Verification Form (required only for California residents considering a Cal Grant) also begins.

3. November 1 – 30: Application Filing Period

4. March 2: Deadline for submission of the Financial Aid Application (FAFSA), Cal Grant GPA Verification Form, and Dream Act.

5. End of March: Admission Notification

6. May 1: Deadline for admission deposit, application for campus accommodation, and UCLA College Honors Program

7. July 1: Submit final official transcripts and qualifications for admission. These must be postmarked or submitted electronically on or before July 1.

8. July 15: The Official Results of the IB and AP Examinations must be sent to admissions. All test scores must be electronically submitted or postmarked before July 15.

UC Berkeley Important Dates

1. August 1: Application Becomes Available

2. October 1: Financial aid applications (CA Dream Act and FAFSA) open.

3. November 1 - 30: Application Filing Period

4. November 30: Application Deadline

5. Early December: Applicants are notified by UC Berkeley of their application receipt.

6. January 31: Deadline for UC Berkeley Forms

7. End of March: Freshman Admission Decisions Posted

8. End of April: Transfer Admission Decisions Posted

9. May 1: Deadline to Accept Offers for Freshmen

10. June 1: Deadline to Accept Offers for Transfer Students

UCB vs UCLA: Advantages & Disadvantages

UCLA vs Berkeley presents a dynamic comparison between two of the most prestigious universities in the U.S. UCLA offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong emphasis on athletics, entertainment, and social life. Located in Los Angeles, it provides unparalleled access to the entertainment industry, startups, and business hubs. The university is renowned for its programs in film, medicine, and business, along with solid STEM courses. Additionally, UCLA's sunny weather and lively student life make it a popular choice for those looking for a well-rounded college experience. However, its large student body can sometimes make it challenging to receive personalized attention, and the high cost of living in LA can be a drawback for some students.

On the other hand, UCB vs UCLA brings out Berkeley’s reputation for academic rigor and excellence in technology, engineering, and business, with close ties to Silicon Valley. UC Berkeley fosters an intellectually stimulating environment with a politically active student body. The university offers strong financial aid programs and innovative research opportunities. However, Berkeley's competitive atmosphere can be intense, and the cost of living in the Bay Area is high. Additionally, while the city of Berkeley provides cultural diversity and career connections, safety concerns in certain areas can be a downside.

Key Differences Between UCB vs UCLA

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Category UC Berkeley UCLA
Academic Strengths Known for STEM fields (Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology) Known for arts and humanities (Film, Performing Arts, Literature)
Graduate Outcomes A high percentage of grads find jobs in tech, engineering, and finance Many graduates pursue advanced degrees or professional programs
Cost of Living and Tuition Higher cost of living in Berkeley; Tuition: $46,638 (in-state), $80,838 (out-of-state) Lower cost of living in Los Angeles; Tuition: $42,127 (in-state), $76,327 (out-of-state)
Campus Size and Facilities 419 acres, a vibrant community with excellent research facilities 1,232 acres, a larger campus with diverse student organizations
Student Demographics and Campus Life The politically active student body, strong involvement in social justice and environmental movements Diverse campus life, strong emphasis on athletics, Greek life, and community
Acceptance Rate 14% (more selective) 11% (more competitive)
Career Prospects and Salary Graduates in engineering and computer science land high-paying roles in Silicon Valley and Big Tech Graduates find success in various fields, but median salaries tend to be lower
Student Support and Financial Aid Over 60% of students receive financial aid, with options like grants and scholarships 68% of students receive financial aid, with programs like the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan
Weather and Campus Environment 205 sunny days, cooler weather due to proximity to the Bay Area 284 sunny days and warm weather year-round
Tuition Fees Comparison In-state: $46,638, Out-of-state: $80,838 In-state: $42,127, Out-of-state: $76,327

Conclusion: UCLA vs UC Berkeley

When comparing UCLA vs UC Berkeley, both universities provide excellent opportunities for students. UC Berkeley shines in its academic focus on STEM fields, while UCLA offers an expansive range of programs with a focus on student satisfaction and research. Choosing between them depends on various factors such as your specific academic interests, financial situation, and the kind of campus life you're seeking. Both universities are globally renowned, making either choice a prestigious step towards your future career. So, take the time to evaluate your priorities and make the best choice for your academic journey!

So, the question now is: which will you choose - UCLA vs UC Berkeley? When weighing UCLA against UC Berkeley, it’s clear that both are exceptional options for students. Each offers a high-quality education, strong career prospects, and distinctive resources and experiences. So, which one will be your winner in the UCLA vs UC Berkeley debate? The decision depends on various factors, such as your academic interests, location preferences, campus atmosphere, lifestyle choices, career ambitions, and financial situation. Therefore, when deciding between UC Berkeley and UCLA, consider all aspects carefully. By evaluating the criteria that matter most to you, you can make an informed choice!

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

Is UC Berkeley better than UCLA?

Both UC Berkeley and UCLA are prestigious universities that are highly regarded globally. While UC Berkeley is often recognized for its strong programs in STEM and the humanities, UCLA is known for its rigorous academics, extensive research opportunities, and highly competitive athletic programs.

‍

Is Berkeley or UCLA the #1 public university?

Both UCLA and UC Berkeley have been ranked as the #1 public university in the United States. In recent years, they have often tied for the top spot. The rankings can vary slightly depending on the criteria used by different ranking organizations.

Why is UCLA ranked higher than UC Berkeley?

UCLA often ranks higher than UC Berkeley due to its strong emphasis on student satisfaction, diverse programs, and a robust campus experience. Additionally, UCLA's achievements in research, athletics, and community engagement contribute to its high rankings.

Is UC Berkeley as good as an Ivy?

While UC Berkeley is not an Ivy League school in name, it is often compared to Ivy League universities due to its high academic reputation, extensive research opportunities, and the success of its graduates. In fact, UC Berkeley often ranks among the top colleges nationally and globally, often surpassing many Ivy League schools.

Why is UCLA so prestigious?

UCLA’s prestige comes from its high academic standards, extensive research opportunities, and successful athletic programs. Furthermore, UCLA has been named the nation’s top public university in the U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges'' rankings for several consecutive years.

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