Applications
Thank you for your interest in University High School!
UHS is committed to an equitable admissions process and, in accordance with state regulations, uses a random public lottery when the number of applications exceeds available enrollment.
In addition to California residency, applicants must have at least two years of prior musical experience. All UHS students participate in music theory courses and musical ensembles throughout all four years, so a strong interest in vocal or instrumental music is essential.
University High School primarily admits students entering 9th grade, with applications submitted during their 8th-grade year. Based on space availability, UHS may also accept transfer students in grades 10 through 12.
While applications are currently closed, we recommend reviewing the admissions process below and preparing for our next Application Period. We strongly encourage prospective students and families to attend one of our Fall and Winter Information Days to learn more about our academic program, campus culture, and unique music-integrated experience.
Our Application Period is closed.
Applications for the 2027-28 school year will be accepted in January 2027.
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How to Apply
Follow the steps below.
After applying, families will receive a confirmation call with next steps. UHS holds a random, public lottery—families may attend the live drawing, but attendance is not required. Students not initially admitted will be placed on a waitlist and contacted in lottery order if space becomes available.
1
Complete the Student Application Form
Please answer all application questions. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
✓ Music Background
Under Student Music Proficiency, indicate whether you are a vocalist or list the instrument(s) you play, including the number of years of experience.
✓ Short-Answer Questions
Prepare responses to the two optional short-answer questions. These do not impact admission decisions, but help us get to know you better.
✓ Transcripts (Transfers Only)
Applicants entering grades 10–12 must submit a current high school transcript.
2
Music Evaluation: Demonstrate your experience
Choose one of the following options to demonstrate music experience:
✓ Middle School Music
Submit a 7th or 8th grade transcript with your application - showing a music course and grade received.
✓ Music Teacher Evaluation
Have your current music teacher complete and submit the Music Teacher Evaluation Form below. This must be sent directly by the teacher in a sealed envelope or by mail.
✓ In-Person Assessment
Contact the UHS office to schedule a brief music assessment with our Music Director.
Admissions FAQs
Have questions about applying to University High School? Here are answers to common questions about eligibility, admissions requirements, music participation, and the application process.
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University High School primarily accepts students entering 9th grade who apply during their 8th-grade year. Depending on space availability, transfer students may also be admitted in grades 10 through 12.
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Yes. In addition to California residency, applicants must have at least two years of prior musical experience and a strong interest in vocal or instrumental music.
This experience may be verified through one of the following
Two years of music coursework listed on a transcript
Written verification from a current or former music teacher
Completion of a music evaluation with our Music Department
Because music is a central part of the UHS experience, students should be prepared to actively participate in ensemble and performance opportunities.
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UHS is committed to equity in admissions. If the number of applications exceeds available space, admission is determined through a random public lottery, as required by state regulations.
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Yes. All UHS students take music theory classes and participate in musical ensembles throughout all four years of high school.
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If UHS feels like the right fit for your student, we invite you to submit an application during the admissions window.
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Once your application is received, our front office will call to schedule a music evaluation. The evaluation with with our Music Department takes less than 10 minutes. It may be scheduled even after the application deadline, as long as your application was submitted before 5pm on the deadline date.
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If the number of qualified applicants exceeds available space, University High School conducts a random public lottery, as required by state law. The lottery is a live event held on campus. Parents, students, and family members are welcome to attend and observe; however, attendance is not required for an applicant to be included or selected. All applicants are entered fairly, and families are notified of the results following the lottery.
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Yes. Should any selected applicants choose not to enroll, families on the waitlist are contacted in the order of their lottery placement as seats become available.