University of California-Los Angeles

Nestled in the vibrant Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) stands as a beacon of academic and athletic excellence. Since its establishment in 1919 as the Southern Branch of the University of California, it has grown into a premier public land-grant research university, and the second-oldest campus in the esteemed University of California system. UCLA is globally recognized for its rigorous academics, groundbreaking research, and dynamic campus life, drawing students from across the nation and around the world.

UCLA's journey began humbly in 1881 as a normal school dedicated to training teachers for Southern California. Through persistent lobbying and a compelling vision, it evolved into a University of California campus, overcoming initial resistance from Northern California. This tenacious spirit is woven into its fabric, culminating in its elevation to coequal status with UC Berkeley in 1951 and adopting its current name, University of California, Los Angeles, in 1958, symbolizing its complete independence and maturity as a world-class institution. The iconic Westwood campus, with its distinctive architecture, opened its doors to students in 1929, marking a new era of expansion and achievement.

Academically, UCLA offers an impressive 337 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across the College of Letters and Science and twelve professional schools. Prospective students will find top-ranked programs in fields ranging from Engineering and Applied Science to Medicine, Law, Management, Public Health, Nursing, and Education. The university consistently attracts a vast pool of talent, receiving the most undergraduate applications of any U.S. university in Fall 2022.

Beyond the classroom, Bruins are synonymous with athletic triumph, boasting an incredible 125 NCAA team championships—second only to Stanford—and a remarkable record of Olympic medalists. With its motto, "Fiat lux"—Let there be light—UCLA empowers its students to excel, innovate, and make a profound impact, embodying its legacy of excellence in every endeavor.