The UC PIQs are pretty different in focus, content, and approach from Common/Coalition App personal statements.

We cover differences between the Common App and the UC PIQs here in greater depth. Perhaps the biggest difference is that the PIQs require four written responses of 250-350 words, chosen from eight different possible prompts. The purpose/goal of the PIQs is to help address the UC system’s 13 points of comprehensive review. (And at that link, you can see how the different campuses evaluate those factors slightly differently.) Here’s some analysis/explanation of the 13 points. The PIQs can also be far more straightforward and simple than some personal statements—on the spectrum from poetry to information, the UC PIQs are pretty far toward the information side.

If a student is planning on applying to the UCs, we offer a pay-what-you-can PIQ Writing Tool and online course here.

If you’re thinking about applying to the Cal State system, you can start here.

And for both, as well as for California community colleges, be sure to read up on California’s Educational Opportunity Program.