Quick Summary
Based in Irvine, United States, University of California, Irvine is a public research university with roots dating back to 1965. Ranked #232 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 37243 students including 16.5% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Nursing, Performing Arts, Chemistry, it maintains an acceptance rate of 21%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
UCI is a top-ranked public university known for its research impact, safety (voted safest city in America), and proximity to a major tech and business hub in Irvine.
Subject Strengths
NursingPerforming ArtsChemistryBiological SciencesLawPhysics and Astronomy
Founded1965
TypePublic Research University
Total Students37243
Intl Students16.5%
Faculty Ratio18
CampusSuburban
Campus Size1500 acres
Affiliated HospitalsUC Irvine Medical Center,CHOC (Children's Hospital of Orange County)
AccreditationWASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#232
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#92
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#61
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's,Master's,Doctoral,Professional Certificates
Programs
100
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Beckman Laser Institute,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center,Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory,UCI Institute for Design and Manufacturing Innovation
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate21%
IELTS7
TOEFL80
Min GPA3.4
GREOptional (Varies by Graduate Program)
GMATRequired for MBA (Waivers available)
SATTest-Free
ACTTest-Free
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · November 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) to demonstrate leadership and community involvement. UC Irvine values applicants who show resilience and a strong match for their specific major.
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Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$14,326/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$22,000/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$13,500/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$95
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$36,326/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$18,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's,Master's,Doctoral,Professional Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Computer Science | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Business Administration | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Criminology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Law and Society | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$72,400
Average Salary After Graduation
91%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with Orange County and Silicon Valley tech and biotech firms.
Industry Connections
Blizzard EntertainmentBroadcomEdwards LifesciencesGoogleWestern Digital
Notable Alumni
Roy T. Fielding,Michael Chabon,Greg Louganis,Alice Sebold
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Anteater Recreation Center,Bren Events Center,Anteater Ballpark
Student Clubs
600
Library Resources
Jack Langson Library,Science Library,Grunigen Medical Library
Exchange Programs
UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP),Global Summer Exchange
Summer Programs
Available