Which Program Level Fits You?
UC San Diego offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Business Economics, Biology, Mathematics, Psychology, Political Science, and more. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, Engineering, Public Health, Finance, and more. |
| Professional Programmes | |
| Professional degrees in Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, and other specialised disciplines. | |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by internationally renowned faculty and world-class research institutes. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Strong academic performance with programme-specific entry requirements |
| GPA | Competitive academic record (graduate programmes typically expect 3.0/4.0 or equivalent minimum) |
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 (undergraduate minimum) |
| TOEFL iBT | 83+ (tests before Jan 2026) or updated equivalent requirements thereafter |
| Duolingo English Test | 115+ |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, essays/personal statements, CV/résumé (graduate), letters of recommendation, and programme-specific documents | For undergraduate admissions, UC San Diego is test-blind, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not considered for admission or scholarship decisions. International students whose education was not conducted in English must demonstrate English language proficiency. (UC San Diego Admissions) |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary by programme.
- Undergraduate - choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through the University of California (UC) Application.
- Undergraduate - submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and required documents. Meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Undergraduate - accept your offer — Receive your admission decision and complete enrollment requirements. (UC San Diego Admissions).
- Postgraduate - apply online — Apply through the UC San Diego Graduate Admissions portal. Submit academic transcripts and programme-specific documents.
- Postgraduate - meet requirements and accept — Meet English language and departmental admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Complete your I-20 and F-1 visa process. (Graduate Education).
- Begin your U.S. student visa process — After accepting your offer, begin your U.S. student visa process.
Get personalized study abroad advice
Chat with our AI advisor about this university guide - tailored to your profile.
Start conversation

