Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Santa Barbara, California |
| Online | ucsb.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Midsize Suburban |
| Size | Large |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
The University of California-Santa Barbara (UCSB) is a prominent public research institution positioned along the central California coast, approximately 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Established in 1891 as an independent teachers' college, it joined the University of California system in 1944. UCSB's picturesque campus spans 1,055 acres with a layout that emphasizes the region's Mediterranean climate and features architecture that harmonizes with its coastal environment. The university is distinguished for its interdisciplinary programs and is particularly noted for its impactful research and academic strength in fields such as environmental studies, marine sciences, and psychology. The student body benefits from access to a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a vibrant intellectual atmosphere. Selectivity for admissions is competitive, with applicants evaluated holistically. Campus housing is available for students, providing opportunities for on-campus living experiences. UCSB?s athletic teams, known as the Gauchos, compete in the NCAA Division I Big West Conference, but the institution is particularly renowned academically rather than for its athletic programs.
In the most recent statistical year 110,995 prospective students applied, and 28,688 were granted admission. Of those admitted 4,967 enrolled in the school. 25,514 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 906 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $11,564 plus fees of $3,053. UCSB is ranked 109 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
UCSB is rated within the top 22% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 8 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for University of California Santa Barbara within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#109 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#19 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#15 in Best Colleges in California
#6 in Best Public Colleges in California
#52 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#9 in Best Value Colleges in California
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1230/1460 |
| ACT | 28/34 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.82 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Nov 30, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | High |
| Application Fee | $70 |
Annual Cost to Attend
California Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,343 |
| Other Fees | $3,053 |
| Room and Board | $16,883 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,059 |
| Total One Year Cost | $37,902 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,343 |
| Other Fees | $3,053 |
| Room and Board | $16,883 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,059 |
| Total One Year Cost | $67,974 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Social Sciences | 20% |
| Business | 11% |
| Psychology | 10% |
| Biology | 7% |
| Visual and Performing Arts | 7% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering UCSB are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about University of California Santa Barbara.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=110705 IPEDS survey data for University of California Santa Barbara.
Current students may use the University of California Santa Barbara GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024