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UNITED STATES · IRVINE

University of California, Irvine

public · Founded 1965 · Languages: en

In short

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is a public research university offering over 220 academic programs across 15 schools. It is known for academic excellence, transformative research, and a vibrant campus community in Irvine, California.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1965
Students: 36,000
International students: 6,500
Acceptance rate: 26%
Tuition (intl): €12–38k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Irvine, United States

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is a leading public research university established in 1965 with a commitment to education, transformative research, and public service. Located in Southern California, UCI offers over 220 academic programs across its 15 schools. It is known for its bold innovation, academic excellence, and significant contributions in fields such as medical innovation, climate resilience, and AI. UCI provides a vibrant campus environment centered around Aldrich Park, fostering a strong sense of community. The university emphasizes student success and offers extensive resources for campus living, student organizations, health, and wellness. With a dedication to diversity and opportunity, UCI aims to empower students to become future leaders and changemakers. Researchers at UCI are actively engaged in groundbreaking discoveries that address complex global challenges, from advancing treatments for Alzheimer's disease to developing sustainable solutions for climate change. The university's strong ties with industry and its entrepreneurial spirit contribute significantly to the local economy and global impact.

Why study here

Access to world-class academic programs and faculty, including Nobel laureates.
Engage in cutting-edge research and innovation with real-world impact.
Benefit from a diverse and inclusive campus community.
Live and study in a highly-ranked, safe city in Southern California with abundant recreational and professional opportunities.
Develop leadership skills and connect through numerous student organizations and volunteer programs.
Join a university committed to sustainability and environmental leadership.

Student life

UC Irvine offers a dynamic campus life with a focus on community, personal growth, and diverse experiences. Students can explore hundreds of clubs and organizations, participate in volunteer programs, and engage in campus events. The Anteater Recreation Center (ARC) provides a 110,000 square-foot facility for fitness classes, sports clubs, and outdoor adventures. On-campus housing options are available for first-year, transfer, and graduate students, complemented by fresh and flavorful dining choices. The university also prioritizes student well-being with a comprehensive Student Health Center and a Basic Needs Center that provides resources for food, housing, and essential support. Arts and athletics are central to campus life, with exciting performances, exhibitions, and spirited support for UC Irvine Athletics.

Fees

InternationalThe program fees for some graduate programs, such as MECPS, are the same for all students, including California residents, US citizens, and non-US citizens. Undergraduate tuition and fees for the 2025-2026 academic year are subject to change. For undergraduate students, tuition and fees for residents are $13,791, while non-residents (international students) pay $44,805.

HomeFor undergraduate California residents, tuition and fees are $13,791 for the 2025-2026 academic year. For some graduate programs like MECPS, program fees are the same for all students, including residents.

LivingInternational students should budget roughly $18,000-$22,000 per year for housing, food, transportation and personal expenses in Orange County, in addition to tuition.

Tuition and fees are subject to change by the University of California and may not be final. Figures represent currently approved or proposed amounts. Some or all instruction may be delivered remotely, and tuition will not be refunded in such events.

Admissions

Bachelor's DegreeFor most graduate programs, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. For the MECPS program, a bachelor's in computer engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering is expected, though other disciplines may be considered with sufficient background in embedded systems.

Undergraduate GPAA minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required for graduate admissions.

GRE ScoresThe GRE exam is not required and will not be reviewed for the current admission cycle for the MECPS program.

Statement of PurposeA statement of purpose is required, and applicants are encouraged to include any hands-on project or relevant industry experience.

Official TranscriptsOfficial university transcripts from every college attended by the applicant are required.

Letters of RecommendationThree letters of recommendation are optional but highly encouraged for graduate applicants.

Personal History StatementA personal history statement is optional but highly encouraged for graduate applicants.

TOEFLMinimum score of 80

IELTS Academic7.0 overall

Rankings

U.S. News & World ReportTop 10 public university (11th consecutive year)

ForbesTop 10 public university

Princeton ReviewNo. 4 best-value public university

The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education 2022 College Rankings#3 in the nation for diversity

Money5-star rating for value and outcomes

The New York Times’ College Access IndexTop-rated public university in California for economic diversity

Sierra magazineNation's top 'Cool School' (12 consecutive years)

Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher EducationNo. 3 among doctorate-granting universities for sustainability leadership

University scholarships

UCI Regents' Scholarship—

International Excellence Awards—

Accreditation

UC Irvine is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is a member of the Association of American Universities, a collective of leading research-intensive universities in North America.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmacological Sciences at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides advanced training for students aspiring to careers in research and academia. This program focuses on understanding drug action, disease mechanisms, and the development of new therapeutic strategies. Students engage in rigorous coursework and cutting-edge research, preparing them for leadership roles in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, and higher education.

PhD

Level

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated costs for international students at UC Irvine?

For the 2025-2026 academic year, undergraduate international students can expect tuition and fees of $44,805. In addition to tuition, international students should budget approximately $18,000-$22,000 annually for living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.

Does UC Irvine require specific English proficiency tests for international applicants?

Yes, international applicants must meet the English proficiency requirements. The minimum score for TOEFL is 80, and for IELTS Academic, it is 7.0 overall.

What are the general admission requirements for graduate programs at UC Irvine?

Most graduate programs require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants also need to submit official transcripts, and while three letters of recommendation and a personal history statement are optional, they are highly encouraged.

What makes UC Irvine a desirable location for international students?

UC Irvine is located in Irvine, California, recognized as one of the safest cities in the U.S. The location offers a blend of a college town atmosphere with the opportunities of a bustling tech hub, providing easy access to beaches, shopping, and cultural centers.

Does UC Irvine offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, UC Irvine offers merit-based scholarships for international students. The UCI Regents' Scholarship is offered automatically to top admitted students, and International Excellence Awards are given to outstanding international applicants based on their admission application.

Last updated 3 July 2026