Answer 4 of the 8 questions. Each response is limited to 350 words.

2026–27 UC Personal Insight Questions

First-year applicants to the University of California answer four of these eight questions, in up to 350 words each. All questions are given equal consideration.

1. Prompt 1 · Leadership

   350 words max

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

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2. Prompt 2 · Creativity

   350 words max

   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.

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3. Prompt 3 · Greatest talent or skill

   350 words max

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

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4. Prompt 4 · Educational opportunity or barrier

   350 words max

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

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5. Prompt 5 · Significant challenge

   350 words max

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

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6. Prompt 6 · Academic subject

   350 words max

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

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7. Prompt 7 · Community

   350 words max

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

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8. Prompt 8 · Strong candidate

   350 words max

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

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Source: official prompt page. Always double-check prompts in your application portal.