As one of the most prestigious track and field programs in the country, UCLA holds its recruits to an exceptionally high standard. If you’re aspiring to join the Bruins, it’s crucial to understand the stringent requirements you’ll need to meet both athletically and academically.
Athletic Standards
UCLA’s track and field coaches seek athletes with exceptional speed, power, and endurance. Here are the specific performance benchmarks you should aim for based on your event:
Sprints (100m – 400m)
- 100m: Sub-10.5 seconds
- 200m: Sub-21.5 seconds
- 400m: Sub-49.0 seconds
Hurdles (100m – 400m)
- 100m: Sub-13.5 seconds
- 110m: Sub-14.5 seconds
- 400m: Sub-53.0 seconds
Distance (800m – 10,000m)
- 800m: Sub-2:00 minutes
- 1500m: Sub-4:05 minutes
- 5000m: Sub-14:50 minutes
- 10,000m: Sub-32:00 minutes
Field Events
- High Jump: 6’7″ (2.01m) or higher
- Long Jump: 23’6″ (7.16m) or further
- Triple Jump: 49’0″ (14.94m) or farther
- Pole Vault: 16’0″ (4.88m) or higher
- Shot Put: 55’0″ (16.76m) or farther
- Discus: 175’0″ (53.34m) or farther
- Javelin: 220’0″ (67.06m) or farther
Academic Standards
UCLA is renowned for its academic excellence as well as its athletic prowess. All prospective recruits must meet the following academic requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Strong performance in core academic subjects (math, English, science, social studies)
- Minimum SAT score of 1200 (old scale) or 1330 (new scale)
- Minimum ACT score of 29
The Recruiting Process
The UCLA track and field recruiting process is highly competitive. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how it works:
- Identify your interests: Research UCLA’s track and field program and determine if it’s a good fit for your goals.
- Contact the coaches: Reach out to the coaching staff via email or phone to express your interest and provide your athletic and academic information.
- Submit a recruiting questionnaire: Complete the official UCLA track and field recruiting questionnaire, which will ask for detailed information about your athletic and academic history.
- Schedule an official visit: If the coaches are interested in your application, they may invite you to visit the UCLA campus and meet with the team.
- Apply for admission: Submit an official application to UCLA through the Common Application.
Tips for Success
To increase your chances of getting recruited by UCLA track and field, consider the following tips:
- Excel athletically: Strive to meet or exceed the athletic standards outlined above.
- Maintain a strong academic record: Ensure you have a high GPA and strong SAT/ACT scores.
- Seek out competitive competition: Participate in high-level track and field events to showcase your skills.
- Get involved in your community: Volunteer your time or participate in extracurricular activities to demonstrate your character.
- Be proactive: Reach out to UCLA coaches early on and express your interest.
The Benefits of Attending UCLA
Joining the UCLA track and field team offers numerous benefits, including:
- World-class coaching: Learn from some of the most experienced and successful coaches in the country.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Train and compete at UCLA’s exceptional athletic facilities, including Drake Stadium.
- Academic support: Receive academic counseling, tutoring, and other support services to help you succeed in the classroom.
- Team atmosphere: Become part of a close-knit and supportive team of talented athletes.
- Alumni network: Connect with a vast network of successful UCLA track and field alumni.
Conclusion
Earning a spot on the UCLA track and field team is an extraordinary opportunity. By meeting the stringent athletic and academic standards, and following the recruiting process diligently, you can increase your chances of being a part of this elite program. The rewards of attending UCLA are immeasurable, including world-class coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive team environment.
