University of California, Riverside

The University of California application uses Personal Insight Questions. Applicants choose four of the eight prompts, and each response can be up to 350 words.

Prompt #1

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

Prompt #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.

Prompt #3

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

Prompt #4

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

Prompt #5

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

Prompt #6

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

Prompt #7

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

Prompt #8

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