UCLA vs UC Berkeley are two top-tier universities of the UC system; two esteemed universities that continuously make an impression in the academic world and are located in the lovely state of California. They are the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley). Both colleges are well-known for providing top-notch instruction and fantastic job possibilities, which makes them popular choices for students all around the world.
It’s worthwhile to investigate which of these two universities would be a better fit for your academic and professional goals given their stellar international reputations and distinctive advantages. It’s crucial to take into account a number of variables, such as their international rankings, while comparing UCLA vs UC Berkeley. Let’s learn more about these two prestigious universities and help make informed decisions.
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An Overview of UCLA vs UC Berkeley
Since its founding in 1868, UC Berkeley has revolutionized society through its innovative contributions to economics, academia, and society. Berkeley, one of the original 14 members of the Association of American Universities, has more than 1,800 academic members and more than 42,000 students. It is also home to several internationally recognized research centers, such as the Space Sciences Laboratory and the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute. It is the top public university in the world, according to U.S. News and World Report. Berkeley students are involved with over 475 community organizations. In the 2025 rankings, UC Berkeley is ranked #12 in the QS World University Ranking.
UCLA, a prominent public research university with 4,100 academic members and over 47,700 students was founded in 1920. UCLA, which is renowned for its leadership in sustainability, is ranked #42 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is a global innovator. Its impressive performance in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings suggests that its graduates are among the most employable students in the world right out of college.
UCLA is renowned for its top-notch art programs as well as other robust programs for students who wish to succeed in performing arts, visual art, film, literature, history, and philosophy. At UCLA, they could study different facets of the human mind and expression. On the other hand, the scientific and technology programs of UC Berkeley are well-known. UC Berkeley has achieved high rankings in fields such as biotechnology, computer science, and engineering. A brief comparison between UCLA vs UC Berkeley can be found here.
| Features | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Berkeley, California | Los Angeles, California |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 19.4: 1 | 18:1 |
| Total Undergraduate Students | 33,040 | 33,078 |
| Total Graduate Students | 12,017 | 13,598 |
| Total Number of Students | 45,057 | 46,676 |
| Acceptance Rate (2024) | 11% | 9% |
| U.S. News Ranking (2024) | #2 | #1 |
| QS 2024 Ranking | #12 | #42 |
| Financial Aid | More than 60% of students receive aid. | 68% receive grants and scholarships |
| Campus Size | 1,232 acres | 419 acres |
| Classes (< 20 Students) | 54.7% | 48% |
| Freshman Retention Rate | 97% | 97% |
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Acceptance Rate
Many students find it difficult to decide between UCLA and UC Berkeley because both schools are ranked in the top 50 universities by the QS Rankings. UC Berkeley has the second-most selective acceptance rate of the two, with an admission rate of 11.3%. In contrast, UCLA has a 9% acceptance rate, making it the more competitive school and the most difficult to get into.
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Key Parameters
A number of crucial factors that determine the academic path and student experience must be taken into account when contrasting UCLA with UC Berkeley, two of California’s top public colleges. The following are some of the main distinctions between UCLA and UC Berkeley:
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Academics
The main focus of a comparison between UC Berkeley and UCLA should be academics. It’s crucial to fully investigate and comprehend the departments, faculties, facilities, disciplines, and curricula of each university before choosing one. Which university, UC Berkeley or UCLA, is more academically notable?
Across 130 academic departments and 80 multidisciplinary research areas, UC Berkeley provides more than 350 degree programs. Students at UCLA have access to a wide range of programs in many different fields. The university offers the option to obtain a master’s degree while still an undergraduate, or to pursue a minor in addition to a major. To determine which is a step ahead, let’s examine their academic offers.
| Programs | 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 |
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Campus Life
When comparing UC Berkeley and UCLA, campus life is an important but frequently overlooked factor. When determining if UC Berkeley is superior to UCLA, a student’s total educational experience can be significantly impacted by the atmosphere and opportunities that a university campus provides. Here is a brief summary of the amenities available at each campus:
| Features | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| Veterans Resource Centre (VRC) | Yes (Military and Veteran Services) | Yes |
| LGBTQ Resource Centre | No | Yes |
| Parent & Family Association | No | Yes |
| Fraternity & Sorority Relations (FSL) | No | Yes |
| Student Organizations, Leadership & Engagement | Yes | Yes |
| Sponsorship Opportunities | No | Yes |
| Study Abroad Program | Yes | No |
| Online Classes | Yes | No |
| Disability Services | Yes | No |
| On-Campus Day Care | Yes | No |
| Course Options | Full-Time & Part-Time | Full-Time Only |
| Housing | Yes | Yes |
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Admission Requirements
We then discuss the admissions requirements for UCLA vs. UC Berkeley in this fight. There would be no university life at all without admittance! The student’s mental preferences when choosing between Berkeley and UCLA are influenced by how efficient the admissions procedure is! English proficiency is required for international students at UCLA and UC Berkeley.
- UCLA: TOEFL iBT: 100 IELTS: 7.0
- UC Berkeley: TOEFL iBT: 100 IELTS: 6.5 minimum score, DET: 115 minimum score
Here is a comparison of the admissions standards for UC Berkeley and UCLA:
| Admission Requirements | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| GPA | 3.0 (3.4 GPA for non-residents) | 3.0 (3.4 GPA for non-residents) |
| SAT Score Range | 1415 - 1600 | 1405 - 1600 |
| ACT Score Range | 31 | 27-34 |
| Educational Background | Comparable bachelor’s degree, high school diploma, or 15 years of study with 3.4 GPA in English | Four-year bachelor’s degree, high school diploma, transcripts |
| Extracurriculars | Extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership positions, and special experiences are all given careful thought. | Emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals who exhibit personal accomplishments, leadership, and community service |
| Additional Requirements | GMAT, GRE Subject Test, GRE general or MCAT scores (3.0 on 4.0 scale for PG courses) | GMAT/GRE scores, Statement of Purpose, Curriculum Vitae |
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Tuition Fees and COA
Take a look at our UCLA vs. UC Berkeley cost of attendance comparison table to see which institution is more expensive, even though both UCLA and UC Berkeley are part of the UC system. The tuition costs for California residents and non-residents attending UCLA and UCB are contrasted in the table. University tuition, housing, and food costs, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, and health and personal insurance are among the expenses. In order to make an informed decision, students could be taught about the differences in cost between the two universities.
Cost of Attendance | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| University Fees | $16,608 | $15,154 |
| Books, Course Materials, Supplies, and Equipment | $1,132 | $1,641 |
| Health Insurance (can be waived for students with own insurance) | $3,774 | $4,028 |
| Food & Housing | $21,508 | $18,369 |
| Transportation | $742 | $778 |
| Personal | $2,226 | $2,620 |
| CA Resident Total | $46,638 | $42,127 |
| Non-resident supplemental Tuition | $34,200 | $34,200 |
| Non-Resident Total | $80,838 | $76,327 |
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Additional Factors
Although the UC Berkeley vs. UCLA comparison information above offers a thorough summary, other important details like weather trends, housing availability, financial aid options, and campus culture can make a big difference in the two schools’ experiences.
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Financial Aid
The financial aid programs offered by UC Berkeley and UCLA are very different. This is a thorough comparison:
UCLA Financial Aid
The cost of enrollment at UCLA varies according to residency. Residents of California pay $38,517 in total, while non-residents must pay $71,091. Nearly half of UCLA students receive grants or scholarships to help with their tuition, and the university is ranked as the fourth-best in the United States by Forbes. Californians from families making less than $80,000 a year are guaranteed free tuition and fees under the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan.
UC Berkeley Financial Aid
Attendance at UC Berkeley costs $78,582 for non-residents and $46,008 for California citizens. UC Berkeley is a great value offer, ranking second in terms of value for money, with more than half of its students receiving financial aid. This is also covered by the University of California Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan, which, after grants and scholarships are applied for, covers tuition for students from families making less than $80,000 annually.
| Financial Aid | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Grants | Grants |
| Scholarships | Scholarships | Scholarships |
| Work-Study | Prizes and Honors | Work-Study |
| Loans | Loans | Loans |
| Work-Study Programs | Work-Study | Work-Study |
| Special Programs | Innovative Berkeley Aid Programs | - |
| Average Aid Received | Around $28,000 | Around $22,000 |
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Housing
Although students at UCLA and UC Berkeley have the option of living on campus, about 70% of them choose to live off campus because of the flexibility in terms of cost, lease terms, amenities, and privacy. It’s evident that Berkeley housing is more costly than UCLA when comparing the average rent for off-campus accommodation at the two universities. However, UCLA offers better housing options, making it easier for students to find off-campus accommodations.
The average cost of several student housing options near UCLA or UC Berkeley is shown here. A trustworthy website that provides student accommodation close to the college campus and with easy access to public transit is uhomes.com.
| Room types/monthly rent | UC Berkeley | UCLA |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,801 | $2,401 |
| 1b | $3,137 | $2,917 |
| 2b | $4,137 | $4,047 |
| 3b | $6,579 | $6,179 |
UCLA Housing
With an astounding 98% of freshmen living on campus, UCLA is dedicated to providing excellent housing for incoming freshmen. The first university in the UC System to provide such a complete housing guarantee is UCLA, which offers housing guarantees for up to four years. However, there are a number of great options that offer affordability, convenience, and close access to the school for students who want off-campus accommodation near UCLA.
- 1539 Beloit Ave, Los Angeles
- 1265 Barry Ave, Los Angeles
- 1751 Malcolm Ave, Los Angeles
- 1515 Colby Ave, Los Angeles
- 1450 S Barrington Ave, Los Angeles
UC Berkeley Housing
On the other hand, while over 95% of UC Berkeley’s freshmen live on campus, just roughly 22% of all undergraduates live on campus. However, UC Berkeley off-campus accommodation is preferred by many students who want greater freedom, flexibility, and access to the city’s thriving culture. The Best Off-Campus Accommodations Close to UC Berkeley:
- Identity Logan Park, Berkeley
- University Park, Berkeley
- Bosco, Berkeley
- Stonefire Berkeley, Berkeley
- Standard Berkeley, Berkeley
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UCLA vs UC Berkeley: What are the Key Differences?
- Graduate Outcomes: After graduation, UC Berkeley and UCLA students choose distinct routes. While most UCLA grads seek higher degrees following graduation, the majority of UC Berkeley graduates find employment within six months after graduation.
- Academic Strengths: UCLA is well known and highly esteemed for its arts and humanities departments, whereas UC Berkeley is acknowledged for its leadership in science and technology.
- Median Salaries: The median salary for UC Berkeley grads is often higher than that of UCLA graduates. Berkeley’s stronger reputation in computer science and engineering may be one factor. Big Tech businesses like those majors.
- Cost of Living: UCLA is located in Los Angeles, and UC Berkeley is located in Berkeley, California. The cost of living in Los Angeles is more affordable than in Berkeley, and tuition at UCLA is likewise less expensive.
UCLA vs UC Berkeley: Which University Is Best for You??
UC Berkeley Advantages
Berkeley has the following advantages over UCLA:
UC Berkeley Reputation: Berkeley’s standing outside of California is better. Berkeley is becoming seen as being more unique than UCLA the farther you are from California. On the East Coast, a Berkeley degree will get you into several industries. Students at UC Berkeley are more likely to find employment than those at UCLA. People believe that UC Berkeley is among the Ivy League schools because of its international reputation. It goes without saying that Berkeley and UCLA have similar reputations in California. Even though reputation is kind of a surface-level consideration, Berkeley has nonetheless won this game overall.
UC Berkeley Campus Experience: Berkeley is a more interesting city than Westwood Village in terms of the whole experience. Los Angeles has more activity than the entire San Francisco Bay Area, but due to the enormous distances and heavy traffic, a car is typically needed to move around the city’s attractions. Berkeley, on the other hand, is the epitome of a pedestrian-friendly area, which is uncommon in the huge metropolis of Los Angeles. The city is so walkable that owning a car is essentially superfluous.
Berkeley is renowned for its vibrant intellectual scene, which adds to its strong sense of community. The cityscape is peppered with coffee shops, bookstores, and a wide range of restaurants, emphasizing its appeal as both intimate and global. Berkeley escapes the oppressive crowds of New York City while maintaining its metropolitan essence, thanks to its harmonious size balance, which is maintained by the symbiotic relationship between the city and its university, which increases its allure.
Of course, some people might pick UCLA over UC Berkeley based on various standards.
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UCLA Advantages
UCLA’s Superb Location: One factor is UCLA’s close proximity to well-known amusement parks like Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, and Disneyland. Having these attractions nearby can offer students who enjoy entertainment and leisure a much-needed break from the demanding nature of their studies. Additionally, students who prefer a warmer atmosphere might find UCLA’s Los Angeles location more appealing because it has more sunny days than Berkeley. Although Berkeley doesn’t have severe weather, UCLA might be more enticing to people who prefer a consistently sunny environment. Berkeley’s setting, which can have notable socioeconomic disparities, may not be as desirable as UCLA’s location in the wealthy suburbs of Los Angeles.
UCLA Sports: Additionally, UCLA’s sports teams are superior to UC Berkeley’s, which can foster a lively campus life and enable students to take part in community service projects and school pride activities.
UCLA Campus Experience: Compared to Berkeley’s diverse mix of architectural styles, some people think UCLA’s design is more aesthetically pleasing and consistent. Berkeley’s architecture is more varied and less standardized. Additionally, the largest and most diverse cohort of students is admitted to UCLA. The sight of so many diverse cultures and individuals from around the globe astounds UCLA students.
Ultimately, the choice between UCLA and UC Berkeley is a personal one that is influenced by a variety of factors, including reputation, geography, campus aesthetics, extracurricular activities, and campus life. Every university offers a different experience, and depending on their individual goals and interests, students might prioritize different aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which university is more prestigious: UCLA or UC Berkeley?
Both UCLA and UC Berkeley are globally renowned, but UC Berkeley is often ranked slightly higher in global university rankings and is known for its strong research output. However, UCLA surpasses Berkeley in certain fields, such as film, performing arts, and medical programs. Ultimately, the choice depends on your academic and career goals.
2. Which university is harder to get into?
UC Berkeley and UCLA have similar highly competitive acceptance rates, but UCLA has a lower acceptance rate (~9%) than UC Berkeley (~11%) as of recent admissions cycles. However, admissions difficulty varies by major, with STEM and business-related programs being more selective at both schools.
3. Which university has a better campus life and student experience?
UCLA offers a more vibrant campus life with its prime Los Angeles location, sunny weather, and access to Hollywood, beaches, and entertainment. UC Berkeley, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is known for its activism, intellectual atmosphere, and startup culture, making it great for networking and innovation.
4. Which university is better for STEM majors?
UC Berkeley is stronger in engineering, computer science, and tech-related fields, with close ties to Silicon Valley. However, UCLA excels in life sciences, medicine, and psychology, and is home to a prestigious medical school and research hospital.
5. Which university offers better career opportunities?
Both universities provide strong career prospects, but UC Berkeley has an edge in tech, business, and entrepreneurship due to its proximity to Silicon Valley. UCLA, with its location in Los Angeles, offers great opportunities in entertainment, media, and health sciences.
Bottom Line: The better choice depends on your field of study and personal preferences—UCLA for a dynamic city life and health/arts focus, and UC Berkeley for tech, research, and activism.
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Conclusion: UCLA vs UC Berkeley, Which is More Preferable for you?
Despite not being Ivy League institutions, the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of California Berkeley (UCB) are regarded as two of the best universities in the country. Both UCLA and UC Berkeley offer top-notch educational options for students. While UCLA provides a wide range of programs with an emphasis on student fulfillment and research, UC Berkeley excels in its academic focus on STEM subjects.
The type of campus life you’re looking for, your financial condition, and your particular academic interests all play a role in your decision. Either decision is a distinguished step toward your future profession because both universities are well-known throughout the world. Make the greatest decision for your academic career by carefully weighing your priorities.
The question now is, between UCLA vs UC Berkeley, who would you pick? It is evident that both UCLA and UC Berkeley are outstanding choices for students when comparing them. Each provides unique resources and experiences, a top-notch education, and promising job opportunities. Which do you think will win the debate between UC Berkeley and UCLA? Your academic interests, preferred location, campus culture, lifestyle choices, professional goals, and financial status are just a few of the variables that will influence your decision. Thus, carefully weigh all factors when choosing between UCLA and UC Berkeley. You may make an informed decision by weighing the factors that are most important to you!