University of California Irvine

The University of California Irvine (UC Irvine) is a public institution that was founded in 1965 and is located in Orange County. Regarded as a research institution, UC Irvine is particularly respected for its programs in business, engineering, and cancer and neuroscience research. Notable alumni include award-winning novelists Michael Chabon and Alice Sebold, as well as the founder of the Freedom Writers Foundation, Erin Gruwell.

Ranked 43 in the nation, UC Irvine is a very selective school. Its acceptance rate is 30%. In-state tuition is $13,104 per year, plus additional fees; out-of-state tuition is $44,130 per year, plus additional fees. Over 29,000 undergraduates and over 7,000 postgraduates are enrolled. The university offers over 85 undergraduate programs and more than 100 graduate programs. The university follows a quarter-based academic calendar.

With the Pacific Ocean only 5 miles from its 1,475-acre campus, UC Irvine offers an attractive school environment. It is located in “one of the world’s safest and economically vibrant communities.” Although most students are commuters, on-campus residences are available and more than three quarters of first-year students live on campus. Students can participate in more than 500 organizations, including nearly 50 fraternities and sororities. The university has earned accolades for its innovation, public service, and eco-friendly measures promoting green initiatives.