Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Santa Cruz, California |
| Online | ucsc.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Small City |
| Size | Large |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Established in 1965, the University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC) is a public research university part of the University of California system, located in Santa Cruz, approximately 75 miles south of San Francisco. Known for its picturesque campus set in a redwood forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean, UCSC offers a tranquil yet intellectually vibrant atmosphere. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and an integration of liberal arts and advanced research, UCSC is recognized for its strong programs in biological sciences, social sciences, and its unique approach to education through its residential college system which provides on-campus housing options. The institution fosters a selective admissions process, attracting a diverse and talented student body interested in an array of interdisciplinary studies. UCSC Banana Slugs, the nontraditional nickname reflecting the University's individualism and sense of humor, is representative of the campus culture rather than a focus on athletic prowess.
In the most recent statistical year 65,912 prospective students applied, and 30,926 were granted admission. Of those admitted 3,859 enrolled in the school. 18,646 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 832 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $11,564 plus fees of $2,676. UCSC is ranked 222 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
UCSC is rated within the top 31% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 7 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for University of California Santa Cruz within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#222 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#53 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#22 in Best Colleges in California
#8 in Best Public Colleges in California
#83 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#13 in Best Value Colleges in California
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1160/1360 |
| ACT | 25/33 |
| GPA | 3.63 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Nov 30, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | Average |
| Application Fee | $70 |
Annual Cost to Attend
California Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,204 |
| Other Fees | $2,676 |
| Room and Board | $18,185 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,083 |
| Total One Year Cost | $38,712 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,204 |
| Other Fees | $2,676 |
| Room and Board | $18,185 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,083 |
| Total One Year Cost | $68,784 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Social Sciences | 17% |
| Biology | 14% |
| Psychology | 11% |
| Visual and Performing Arts | 10% |
| Business | 9% |
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Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about University of California Santa Cruz.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=110714 IPEDS survey data for University of California Santa Cruz.
Current students may use the University of California Santa Cruz GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024