UCLA Bachelor of Arts English is a four-year undergraduate degree offered at the University of California, Los Angeles. The programme teaches literature, writing, rhetoric, and critical theory. Delivered in-person at the Westwood campus, it admits top-performing international students. Total tuition is approximately USD 223,904 (INR 2.14 Crores) for four years. Intakes are September each year. The degree trains students for careers in publishing, education, journalism, and law.
UCLA’s English major stands out for its emphasis on diverse literary traditions, advanced composition, and critical analysis. The programme combines classical and contemporary texts with hands-on writing projects. Ideal applicants hold strong standardized test scores, English proficiency at or above TOEFL 100, and a clear passion for literary studies or written communication. The programme attracts ambitious writers, critics, and scholars who aim to shape public discourse.
- Highly selective with a 9% acceptance rate; recognised worldwide by employers in media, law, and academia.
- Large English faculty (50+ professors) offering specialized seminars in poetry, drama, film, and digital humanities.
- Extensive alumni network in publishing houses, newspapers, law firms, and educational institutions across North America.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the September 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 30 November 2026.
Most Indian students apply between August and October. Plan 6-8 weeks for standardised test preparation if you have not yet reached TOEFL 100. WES credential evaluation takes 7-10 business days and is mandatory for non-US high school transcripts.
Also Check: UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Admission
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Fees and Living Costs 2026
International students at UCLA pay tuition in addition to campus fees. The breakdown below reflects the 2025-2026 academic year and is projected to hold for Fall 2026 admissions.
| Cost Component | USD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| University Fees (annual) | US$16,706 | INR 1,601,084 |
| Nonresident Supplemental Tuition (annual) | US$39,270 | INR 3,760,033 |
| Total Tuition (annual) | US$55,976 | INR 5,361,117 |
| 4-Year Total Tuition | US$223,904 | INR 2.14 Crores |
| Health Insurance (annual, required) | US$3,500 | INR 335,195 |
| Books and Supplies (annual) | US$1,200 | INR 114,924 |
| Total Annual Cost with Extras | US$60,676 | INR 5,811,236 |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.77 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
- Tuition applies to all nine quarters required for the degree (some students finish in three years with prior credits).
- Nonresident supplemental tuition is a permanent fee for international students and does not decrease over time.
- Health insurance through UCLA’s student plan is compulsory and covers emergency care, prescription drugs, and mental health.
- Books and supplies for English courses average USD 1,200 annually (literary texts, academic journals, required reading lists vary).
Cost of Living in Los Angeles for UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Students
| Expense Category | Monthly USD | Monthly INR | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Housing | US$800-1,000 | INR 76,616-95,770 | Dorm room with meal plan |
| Off-Campus Rent (shared 2BR) | US$700-950 | INR 67,039-90,981 | Shared flat in Westwood or nearby (Bel Air, Los Feliz) |
| Groceries and Dining (no meal plan) | US$250-350 | INR 23,942-33,519 | Self-catering or eating out occasionally |
| Transport (LACMTA Pass or car share) | US$75-150 | INR 7,183-14,365 | Public transit or app-based carpooling |
| Phone and Internet | US$60-80 | INR 5,746-7,661 | US mobile plan and home WiFi |
| Entertainment and Personal | US$150-250 | INR 14,365-23,942 | Cinema, events, personal care, clothing |
| Total Monthly (on-campus) | US$1,395-1,810 | INR 133,752-173,357 | With meal plan included |
| Total Monthly (off-campus) | US$1,235-1,630 | INR 118,276-156,127 | Shared housing, self-catering |
Cost Reality for Indian Students: Total annual cost including tuition, housing, and living expenses is approximately INR 75-80 Lakhs. Most Indian families budget USD 70,000-80,000 per year. Part-time on-campus work (up to 20 hours per week) can offset some living costs but not tuition.
Read More: Cost of Living in Los Angeles for International Students
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Admission
UCLA is highly selective and admits fewer than 10% of applicants globally. For Bachelor of Arts English, the admissions committee evaluates academic achievement, standardised test scores, English proficiency, and demonstrated interest in literature or writing.
| Admission Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Prior Academic Average | 89-90% (GPA 3.4-3.5 on 4.0 scale) |
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | USD 95 |
| English Proficiency (TOEFL iBT) | 100 or higher (Reading 25+, Writing 25+) |
| SAT or ACT (strongly recommended) | SAT 1450+; ACT 33+ |
| High School Records | WES credential evaluation required for non-US schools |
| Essays / Motivation Letter | Yes, required (why English major, career goals) |
| Recommendation Letters | 2-3 from teachers (preferably English, History, or humanities) |
- Indian applicants averaging below 89% are not competitive; those at 90%+ with TOEFL 100 have realistic chances.
- Most admitted English majors submit SAT scores of 1450-1550; below 1400 significantly reduces admission odds.
- WES credential evaluation is mandatory for Indian high school certificates and must be submitted in the application portal.
- UCLA does not admit directly into majors; you apply as an undeclared student and declare English in your second year after completing foundational courses.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
All international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following standardised tests. Minimum overall scores are listed below; UCLA also sets component minimums.
| Proficiency Test | Minimum Overall Score | Critical Components |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100 | Reading 25+, Writing 25+, Listening 24+, Speaking 24+ |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 | Writing 7.0+, Reading 6.5+, Speaking 6.5+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 | Not separately scored; overall 120 required |
| Cambridge English (CAE / CPE) | Accepted (no minimum score published) | Contact UCLA International Admissions for guidance |
- TOEFL is the most widely accepted test; most Indian students prepare for TOEFL because test centres are abundant in India.
- IELTS is also accepted and preferred by some students who find the speaking module less intimidating; academic module only (not general training).
- Duolingo English Test is newer but increasingly accepted; scores take 1-2 days; consider as backup if TOEFL/IELTS dates are fully booked.
- Below TOEFL 100, your application faces uphill odds even with exceptional academics; prepare thoroughly to meet the 100+ threshold.
Tip for Indian Students: Most Indian applicants sit TOEFL because test centres exist in every major city. Book test dates 4-5 months before the application deadline to allow retakes. TOEFL 105-110 substantially improves your profile and compensates for any academic borderline cases.
UCLA is ranked #46 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #18 by Times Higher Education. The university’s reputation is particularly strong in the humanities and social sciences, including English literature and creative writing.
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Application
The Common Application platform is used for all UCLA undergraduate admissions. The deadline for Fall 2026 entry is November 30, 2026, with early submissions beginning October 1.
| Admission Cycle | Application Window | Deadline | Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 1 October 2026 | 30 November 2026 (11:59 PM PT) | Late March to early April 2027 (rolling) |
| Spring 2027 | Not offered | — | N/A |
| Expected Fall 2027 | 1 October 2027 | 30 November 2027 | Late March 2028 |
- Applications submitted in early October (first week) may receive decisions by early March; late submissions (October-November) wait until April.
- Re-applications are accepted if you were denied or deferred; you must resubmit the full application with updated test scores and essays.
- No extensions are granted beyond November 30; submissions at 11:59:59 PM are accepted; after midnight, the portal closes.
- Enrolment deposit (US$400) is due by May 1 if admitted; this secures your seat in the Fall 2026 cohort.
Application Tip: Submit your application by mid-November at the latest, allowing time for any technical issues or missing documents to be resolved before the deadline. Essays should emphasise why UCLA’s English programme—with its emphasis on diverse literary traditions and critical writing—aligns with your academic goals.
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Scholarships
International students are generally ineligible for need-based financial aid and most merit scholarships at UCLA. However, a small number of scholarships prioritise academic merit and are open to international undergraduates.
The UCLA International Student Scholarship is a competitive award for international undergraduates with strong academics. Awards typically range from USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 per year (INR 4.78 Lakhs to INR 14.36 Lakhs). Additionally, the English Department offers occasional honours, such as the Herb Eiseman Prize for outstanding essays or creative writing (typically USD 1,000-3,000 annually).
| Scholarship Name | Award (USD) | Award (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCLA International Student Scholarship | US$5,000-15,000 | INR 4.78-14.36 Lakhs | Academic merit; need-aware for international students |
| Herb Eiseman Prize (English) | US$1,000-3,000 | INR 95,770-2.87 Lakhs | Exceptional essays or creative writing; internal nomination |
| University of California Regents Scholarship | Tuition cover (full or partial) | Variable (up to INR 53.61 Lakhs annually) | Extremely rare; full-ride consideration for exceptional global scholars |
| External Scholarships (country-based) | Variable | Variable | Check your home country’s government or private foundations |
- International Student Scholarship covers approximately 9-28% of annual tuition; you remain responsible for the remainder and all living costs.
- Merit scholarships require maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher throughout your degree; failure to meet this standard results in withdrawal.
- External scholarships from Indian government bodies or private trusts (TCS, Infosys Foundation, HDFC) sometimes cover international study; explore country-specific schemes.
- Student loans are not available to international students through UCLA; you must explore loans from Indian banks or private lenders.
Scholarship Reality: Expect to fund approximately 90% of your education yourself through family savings or loans. Plan for USD 60,000-70,000 annually from your family’s resources. Scholarships, if awarded, are bonuses—not your primary funding source.
Check Out: UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Scholarships
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Salary
Graduates of UCLA’s English programme pursue careers in education, publishing, law, journalism, and creative industries. According to UCLA’s alumni employment data, English majors earn an average of USD 55,000-65,000 (INR 52.67-62.26 Lakhs) six years after graduation.
| Career Path | Role Example | Average Salary (6 Years Post-Grad) | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Publishing and Editing | Senior Editor, Content Manager | USD 60,000-75,000 | INR 57.46-71.83 Lakhs |
| Education and Academia | High School Teacher, University Lecturer | USD 50,000-65,000 | INR 47.88-62.26 Lakhs |
| Law and Corporate | Paralegal, Corporate Counsel, Policy Advisor | USD 70,000-95,000 | INR 67.04-91.08 Lakhs |
| Journalism and Media | Reporter, Producer, Copywriter | USD 45,000-60,000 | INR 43.09-57.46 Lakhs |
| Creative and Freelance | Author, Screenwriter, Consultant | USD 35,000-80,000 (highly variable) | INR 33.52-76.62 Lakhs (highly variable) |
Source: UCLA Alumni Career Outcomes Tracking, 2024
- English graduates earn 25-30% less initially than engineering or computer science graduates; this gap narrows over a 10-year career.
- Most graduates earning above USD 100,000 (INR 95.77 Lakhs) within 10 years hold advanced degrees (Law JD, MBA, MA in Journalism) or leadership roles.
- Federal and California state income tax combined reduce take-home by approximately 22-32%; actual net pay is lower than gross figures listed.
- Los Angeles has no state income tax advantage; federal tax of 22% applies; plan for net pay of approximately 68-78% of gross salary.
Honest Take on Salary: UCLA’s English degree opens doors in competitive fields but does not guarantee high starting salaries. Plan for 8-10 years of career progression before earning above USD 85,000 (INR 81.40 Lakhs). Specialisations such as law school or MBA substantially increase earning potential.
Read More: Post-Study Work Options for English Graduates in the USA
United States Visa Pathway
International students studying in the USA are sponsored under the F-1 Student Visa. This visa allows you to study full-time for the duration of your degree, remain in the country for a 60-day grace period after graduation, and access post-study work authorisation.
- F-1 Visa: Valid for the full duration of studies plus 60 days after graduation; allows part-time on-campus work (up to 20 hours weekly during term).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Post-study work authorisation for 12-29 months depending on your field; English majors qualify for the 12-month standard duration (STEM field graduates receive 24-29 months).
- H-1B Visa: Skilled worker visa requiring employer sponsorship; salary minimum is USD 104,000 (INR 99.68 Lakhs) for entry-level positions; quota-based with approximately 85,000 annual slots.
- Permanent Residency (Green Card): Achievable after 2-3 years on H-1B visa; requires employer sponsorship and USCIS approval; total timeline from student to PR is typically 6-10 years.
Visa Reality: The F-1 pathway is straightforward, but post-study work depends on employer sponsorship. Many English graduates return to India after OPT (12 months) because securing H-1B sponsorship in non-STEM fields is competitive. Plan your career path with this timeline in mind.
Also Check: Post-Study Work Visa Options for International Students
UCLA Bachelor of Arts English Ranking 2026
UCLA is highly ranked globally across multiple prestigious ranking systems. The university’s English and literature programme is particularly recognised for its research output and faculty reputation.
| Ranking System | Rank | Subject Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #46 | Overall University |
| Times Higher Education World Rankings 2026 | #18 | Overall University |
| US News Best Global Universities 2026 | #13 | Overall University |
| QS Subject Ranking: English Language and Literature | #20 (Global) | English and Literature Discipline |
| Times Higher Education Subject: English Studies | #15 (Global) | English and Literature Discipline |
UCLA’s English programme is consistently ranked among the top 20 programmes globally by QS and THE. The university’s strength in this field reflects its large faculty (50+ professors), extensive library holdings in literature and linguistics, and strong placement of graduates in leading publications and academic institutions.
- THE ranks UCLA’s English Studies at #15 globally, placing it ahead of many Ivy League universities in this specific discipline.
- QS ranks UCLA English at #20 globally; the programme is particularly strong in American literature, cultural studies, and rhetoric.
- International student admission selectivity increases annually; being ranked in the top 20 globally means competition is intense.
- Ranking stability is high; UCLA has maintained top-20 status for over a decade in English-specific disciplines.
Honest Take on Ranking: UCLA’s top-20 ranking in English globally ensures that your degree will be respected by employers worldwide. However, the ranking does not guarantee job placement; your own performance, projects, and networking matter equally in post-graduation success.
Bachelor of Arts English FAQs
Ques. Can I study English as a minor instead of a major at UCLA?
Ans. Yes, UCLA allows students to pursue English as either a major (primary field of study) or a minor (secondary field). You declare your major or minor during your second year after completing foundational writing and literature courses. Many students double-major in English and Communications, Film Studies, or Comparative Literature.
Ques. Are there internship or work-study opportunities in publishing or journalism?
Ans. Yes, UCLA’s English Department partners with publishing houses, newspapers, and media companies in Los Angeles. Internships are available during summer breaks and some during the academic year. F-1 visa rules allow on-campus work (up to 20 hours weekly) and off-campus internships with work-study authorisation. Most students secure a summer publishing or journalism internship before their final year.
Ques. What is the difference between the English BA and the English Literature option within the BA?
Ans. UCLA’s English BA program includes several option tracks: English Literature (focus on texts and critical theory), Writing and Rhetoric (emphasis on composition and persuasive writing), and English Language and Linguistics. You specialise after your first year; the degree title remains Bachelor of Arts in English, but your transcript notes your specialisation option.
Ques. If I have IELTS instead of TOEFL, will UCLA accept it?
Ans. Yes, UCLA accepts both TOEFL iBT (minimum 100) and IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0). Either test is equally accepted in the admissions process. If you have IELTS 7.0 or higher, you meet the English proficiency requirement. Choose the test you are more confident in; both are equally valid for international applications.
Ques. How competitive is it for Indian students to get into UCLA English?
Ans. UCLA’s overall acceptance rate is 9%, and international students face similar or slightly higher selectivity. For Indian applicants, competitive profiles typically include: academics 90%+, TOEFL 105+, SAT 1480+, and strong essays explaining your literary interests. Each year, fewer than 20-30 Indian students are admitted across all majors; English attracts approximately 3-5 Indian admits per cohort. Strong competition exists, but admission is achievable with excellent academics and test scores.
UCLA’s Bachelor of Arts English programme is ideal for students seeking a rigorous, research-intensive education in literature and writing at a top-ranked global university. The degree opens pathways in law, publishing, education, and media—fields where critical thinking and written communication are paramount. Begin your application in October 2026 to secure your place in the Fall 2026 cohort.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake - Oct 1, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $15700 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room and Food (On-Campus) | $17599 |
| Room and Food (Off-Campus) | $15240 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $50328 |
| 2024 | $47322 |
| 2023 | $13804 |
| 2021 | $13239 |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake | Oct 1, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
Official or unofficial academic records from all institutions attended.
English Language Proficiency Score: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), if applicable.
Copy of Passport: Identification page of a valid passport.
Statement of Purpose: Essay outlining academic interests, goals, and reasons for applying.
Two Letters of Reference: Recommendations from academic referees.
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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Career and Placement after Course
Possible career opportunities are:
- Social Media Manager
- Technical Writer
- Grant Writer
- Editor and Content Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington DC Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
-- | USD 64,730 /Yr |
| ||
Early Decision Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2026) Regular Decision Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (5th Jan 2027) | USD 65,670 /Yr |
| ||
Regular Decision Application Deadline for Spring 2027 Intake (1st Oct 2026) Early Action Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2026) Regular Decision Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (15th Jan 2027) | USD 44,210 /Yr |
|
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