More University of California freshmen are failing introductory math classes, including calculus, precalculus and preparatory mathematics, which can cover topics such as algebra or trigonometry. The share who received a D or F, withdrew or did not pass has nearly doubled since 2020-21. Some faculty argue students are unprepared because UC no longer requires the SAT or ACT for admission. UC is weighing whether to reinstate high-stakes exams, though not all faculty support the idea.
Failure rates vary widely across UC’s nine undergraduate campuses, skyrocketing at some while remaining mostly flat at others. Additionally, the majority of students don’t even take an introductory math class, with most starting in a more advanced course.
The average GPA in UC introductory math classes in 2025-26, down from 3.18 in 2020-21.
The share of UC Merced freshmen who received a grade of D or F, withdrew or did not pass an introductory math class in 2025-26. That’s the highest rate across UC campuses, while UC Santa Barbara has the lowest at 8.2%.
The first-year retention rate for students who entered UC in 2024 intending to major in science, mathematics, engineering or technology, suggesting that despite increased failure rates in introductory math classes, STEM students are not dropping out.
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