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University of California Essay Prompts 2026-27

For the 2026-27 cycle: 4 required essays.

One UC application covers every campus you select (Berkeley, Los Angeles, San Diego, Irvine, Davis, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Riverside, Merced). The same personal insight questions go to all of them.

Personal insight questions

Choose 4 of 8

  1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

    350 words max

  2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

    350 words max

  3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

    350 words max

  4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

    350 words max

  5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

    350 words max

  6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

    350 words max

  7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

    350 words max

  8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

    350 words max

Checked against official sources. Last verified August 28, 2026.

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