The estimated proportions of California's 1982-1983 high school graduates who were eligible for admission to the University of California (the University) and the California State University (the State University) are reported. After a discussion of the scope and conduct of the California State Postsecondary Education Commission's 1983 High School Eligibility Study, information is provided on: differences in first-time freshman eligibility rates by gender and, in some cases, by ethnicity; differences in academic performance of eligible and ineligible graduates; comparative data from four eligibility studies conducted since 1955; and the eligibility of a sample of 1983 private high school graduates. To specify the context within which eligibility is determined, the flow of students through secondary and postsecondary education in California is reviewed, along with personal and institutional factors affecting students' behavior and eligibility for admission. It was found that the percentage of public high school graduates meeting the admission standards of the University and the State University has dropped over the last 7 years. AFter a discussion of 14 additional findings, the historical background of the eligibility studies, and design and methods of the 1983 High School Eligibility Study are covered, and the questionnaire is included. (SW)