New data from the University of California shows some interesting trends in admissions and enrollment. Recently, more first-year students from California gained admission to UC campuses, especially at less-selective schools like UC Riverside and UC Merced. However, the more competitive campuses admitted fewer in-state applicants compared to last year.
On average, California students apply to about four UC campuses and often get accepted to more than one. Between 2016 and 2025, total first-year admissions—including in-state, out-of-state, and international students—rose by 42.2%. In contrast, enrollments only grew by 6.6% during the same timeframe.
One key point is that even though many students are admitted to less-selective campuses, many of them choose not to enroll. For example, in 2024, only 12% of admitted students at UC Riverside actually enrolled, whereas UCLA and Berkeley had much higher enrollment rates at 50% and 46%.
The pressure from policymakers has pushed the UC system to admit more in-state students. Between 2016 and 2025, first-year admissions of California residents surged by 42.5%, adding over 30,000 new in-state students this year. In contrast, out-of-state admissions grew by 53.5%, while international admissions had a smaller increase of 29.5%. Notably, international student numbers jumped by 17% this year after facing challenges, including abrupt visa terminations by the federal government.
When looking at diversity, admissions data shows more consistency than change. Despite broader discussions about diversity in higher education, California’s public colleges have not been able to consider race in admissions since Proposition 209 passed in 1996. This year saw admissions rise across all demographic groups. Latino students remain the largest group, with a 7% increase from 2024 to 2025, followed by Asian students (8%), white students (6%), and African American students (8%).
Interestingly, the enrollment yield—how many admitted students choose to enroll—has decreased for in-state students in recent years. While data for 2025 isn’t out yet, from 2016 to 2024, the yield fell from 33% to 26% for Latino students, 46% to 41% for Asian students, 33% to 28% for white students, and 27% to 25% for African American students.
This decline raises questions about what influences students’ choices in higher education. As the UC system tries to provide more opportunities, understanding these changing trends will be essential for future admissions strategies.
For further insights, you can explore the complete admissions data through UC’s resources on enrollment trends and diversity commitments here.
