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Dates & deadlinesYou can start working on your fall application as early as August 1, and submit it by November 30.
Application filing periods
Fall quarter/semester: October 1–November 30
Winter quarter/spring semester: July 1–31
UC Berkeley and UC Merced are on the semester system calendar while all other campuses are on the quarter system calendar. All campuses are open for the fall term, but only some may open for the winter/spring term. 
See more dates & deadlines » 
Filling out the applicationEven though applying to UC is an exciting time in your life, it can also be daunting. But we're here to reassure you—we're not looking for perfection. We want to know about your passions and life experiences...everything that makes you, YOU.
Our application is designed to capture all of this and more.
Learn more about the application » 
Personal insight questionsOur personal insight questions are about getting a better sense of who you are. Take time to think about your life experience, ambition and inspiration. It’s just one small part of your application—but it’s a great chance to introduce yourself, and make an impression.
Freshman questions & directions » 
How applications are reviewedWe know you're more than just your grades and test scores. Using a process called comprehensive review, we look at how hard you've worked to take advantage of the opportunities you've had to excel at school, in your favorite extracurricular activities and in your community.
Learn more about how we review freshman applications » 
After you applyYou've selected your campuses, submitted your application, paid your application fees. Now what? You still have a few more items to cross off your list.
What happens next » ​