UCR in 2025: Why UC Riverside Is Becoming Southern California's Top Public University

🎓 UC Riverside Shatters Records in 2025 Admissions

UC Riverside is on the rise—and 2025 admissions numbers prove it. The university admitted a record-breaking 71,069 first-year and transfer students, far surpassing its 2024 record of 51,345. In fact, UCR led all nine undergraduate UC campuses in first-year admissions and in California student admits.

With 61,718 first-year students accepted (up from 44,328 in 2024), UC Riverside is fast becoming one of Southern California’s most accessible, inclusive, and high-demand public universities.

"Offering admission to more students this year reflects our deep commitment to expanding opportunities for students who aspire to attend a world-class university, like UCR," said Veronica Zendejas, Undergraduate Admissions Director.

🏛️ Leading the Way in Equity and Access

UCR also topped the UC system in admitting first-generation and low-income students, reinforcing its mission to uplift communities and drive educational equity.

With the increase in applicants, UC Riverside has strategically expanded to meet the demand:

  • New programs like Business Analytics in the School of Business

  • A new 63,500-square-foot instructional building

  • The launch of North District 2, with 1,500 new apartment units for students

This growth isn’t accidental—it’s student-centered, equity-driven, and backed by bold investments.

🔄 UCR: A Smart Choice for California Students

  • ✅ 53,379 California residents admitted for Fall 2025

  • ✅ Nearly 12,000 more CA admits than any other UC campus

  • ✅ UC-wide record of 100,947 first-year CA students admitted

  • ✅ UC system’s first-year admit rate rose to 77% for California students

With guaranteed admission for top 9% high school graduates (per California Master Plan), UCR is making higher education both accessible and powerful.

"Our latest admissions numbers demonstrate that families across our state recognize that UC degrees prepare students for a lifetime of meaningful contributions," said UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D.

🛌 Where You Live Matters: Off-Campus Living for the Motivated Student

While on-campus housing is expanding, many motivated and success-driven students choose to live off campus for greater freedom, peace, and personal growth.

That’s where Philadelphia Housing Apartments comes in—a top-rated housing option for UCR students, Extension scholars, and visiting faculty.

Just two blocks from campus, Philadelphia Housing offers:

  • ✅ Walkability to class, labs, and UCR facilities

  • ✅ Gated community with modern 2- and 4-bedroom units

  • ✅ Fully furnished, ideal for international and graduate students

  • ✅ In-unit laundry, quiet study-friendly environment

  • ✅ Access to grocery stores, trails, and transit

"Philadelphia Housing is the perfect place for the focused UCR student. It gave me the independence I wanted and the support I needed to succeed." — Graduate Student, Class of 2025

📚 Final Thoughts: Why UCR Is the Future

From record-setting admissions and campus expansion to its growing reputation in business, STEM, and social equity, UC Riverside is solidifying itself as Southern California’s top UC choice.

Whether you're planning to enroll at UCR or already part of the Highlander community, where you live plays a major role in your college success.

🏡 Explore available units at Philadelphia Housing today and start your journey in Riverside on the right foot.

Updated July 29, 2025