UC Santa Barbara: Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarships & More
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UC Santa Barbara (UCSB), established in 1909, is not just another pretty coastal campus. It’s a top public research university that ranks #178 globally (QS 2025) and sits on a sprawling 1,055-acre campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With an impressive 93% placement rate, UCSB grads go on to work with giants like Google, Apple, and Amazon—talk about dream jobs! For international students, UCSB offers 109+ programs, including popular ones like Engineering, Computer Science, and Environmental Studies.
Tuition for international students typically ranges from $45,000 to $50,000 per year, and the UC Santa Barbara acceptance rate hovers around 32.9%, making it a competitive choice for ambitious students worldwide. In this guide, we will talk about everything related to UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) to help you out in your admission journey. Let’s go!
UC Santa Barbara Highlights 2025
| Category | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1909 |
| Campus Size | 1,055 acres |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #178 globally |
| Campus Location | Santa Barbara, California, USA |
| Placement Rate | Approximately 93% within six months of graduation |
| Top Recruiters | Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Intel |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, Environmental Studies, Psychology |
| English Language Exams Required | TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 32.9% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | $45,000 – $50,000 (approximate) |
| Official Website | www.ucsb.edu |
UC Santa Barbara: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees 2025
If you’re planning to study at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) in 2025, here’s some exciting news—this top-ranked Californian university offers 109 diverse and in-demand programs across undergraduate and postgraduate levels! First-year tuition fees for international students start at around $26,900 (approx. ₹23 lakhs) and can go up to $69,500 (approx. ₹59 lakhs) depending on your course. The most popular programs include B.Tech, MBA, B.Sc., and MS—all of which come with strong global reputations and industry relevance.
To get in, you’ll need to meet the academic eligibility (like a good GPA and subject background) and demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, with minimum score requirements based on the program. Below is a breakdown of popular UCSB courses, their duration, first-year fees, and entry requirements:
| Program | 1st Year Tuition Fees (USD) | 1st Year Tuition Fees (INR) | Duration | Eligibility Criteria | English Proficiency |
| MBA / PGDM | 31,000 – 69,500 | ₹26 L – ₹59 L | 9 – 24 months | UG degree, work experience preferred, GRE recommended | IELTS: 7+, TOEFL: 80–100 |
| MS | 26,900 – 69,500 | ₹23 L – ₹59 L | 9 months – 2 yrs | UG degree in relevant field, strong academic record | IELTS: 7+, TOEFL: 80–100, Duolingo: 120+ |
| B.Sc. | 45,800 – 48,100 | ₹39 L – ₹41 L | 4 years | 12th with science, GPA 3.0+ | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| B.A. | 45,800 – 48,100 | ₹39 L – ₹41 L | 4 years | 12th with humanities/social sciences | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| M.A. | 26,900 – 30,500 | ₹23 L – ₹26 L | 18 months – 2 yrs | UG degree in arts/social sciences | IELTS: 7+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| B.E. / B.Tech | 45,800 – 48,100 | ₹39 L – ₹41 L | 4 – 5 years | 12th with PCM subjects | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 115+ |
| BBA | 45,800 – 48,100 | ₹39 L – ₹41 L | 4 years | 12th with commerce/maths, competitive GPA | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| B.Pharma | 45,800 | ₹39 L | 4 years | 12th with science subjects | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
UC Santa Barbara Rankings 2025
Wondering how UC Santa Barbara is doing in the global rankings game this year? Let’s just say—it’s making serious waves both in the U.S. and internationally! In 2025, UCSB is ranked #178 in the QS World University Rankings and an impressive #67 in the Times Higher Education (THE) global rankings, putting it in the spotlight for academic strength and research impact.
Even when it comes to sustainability, UCSB doesn’t fall behind—it ranks #7 globally for eco-conscious campus efforts, and Money Magazine gives it a 4.5-star rating for balancing academic quality with affordability and future success. All in all, UC Santa Barbara is not just a beautiful beachside campus—it’s a powerhouse of excellence on every front! Below are the key details of UC Santa Barbara:
| Ranking Body | Category | Rank (2025) |
| QS World University Rankings | Global Ranking | #178 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | Global University Rankings | #67 |
| Subject Ranking – Physical Sciences | #37 | |
| Subject Ranking – Engineering | #46 | |
| U.S. News & World Report | National Universities (USA) | #39 |
| Top Public Schools | #13 | |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | #20 | |
| Best Value Schools | #200 | |
| Social Mobility | #20 | |
| Forbes | America’s Top Colleges | #35 |
| Top Public Universities (USA) | #8 | |
| Princeton Review | Best Value Colleges – Public | #8 |
| Best Career Placement – Public | #12 | |
| Wall Street Journal | Best U.S. Public Universities | #67 |
| Best Value Colleges | #64 |
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UC Santa Barbara Acceptance Rate 2025
Applying to UC Santa Barbara in 2025? You’re in great company—over 110,000 students tried their luck this year! With an overall acceptance rate of 32.9%, UCSB is highly selective, so having strong academics really matters. The average admitted student has an impressive GPA of 4.3, and most successful applicants fall within the 4.13 to 4.29 range. Below are the key details of UC Santa Barbara acceptance rate 2025:
| Category | Details |
| Total Applications (Class of 2025) | 110,256 |
| Total Students Admitted | 36,312 |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 32.9% |
| Acceptance Rate (General Estimate) | Approximately 28% |
| Admission Difficulty | Highly selective |
| Average High School GPA (Admitted) | 4.3 (unweighted) |
| GPA Range (Middle 50%) | 4.13 – 4.29 |
| Competitive Advantage | Academic excellence & strong GPA |
UC Santa Barbara Scholarships 2025
Paying for college can be overwhelming, but at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB), you’ve got plenty of options to ease the financial stress. Whether you’re a high-achieving freshman, a passionate international student, or heading off on an exciting study-abroad adventure, UCSB has scholarships designed just for you. From merit-based awards to need-based international aid and global program grants, the support system here is truly student-friendly.
Some scholarships are automatically considered when you apply, while others require separate applications—so it’s always smart to stay ahead of deadlines. Let’s take a closer look at the different scholarships available at UCSB in 2025 and what you need to know to apply:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Award Amount & Duration | Application Process |
| Regents Scholarship | Top 1–2% of incoming undergraduates with exceptional academic achievements | $6,000 honorarium (non-renewable) | Automatically considered with UCSB admission application |
| Office of Financial Aid Scholarships | Varies; some scholarships do not require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency | Varies depending on the award | Apply through finaid.ucsb.edu |
| International Student Award | Full-time international students (F-1 or J-1 visa holders) experiencing financial need | Financial support varies depending on individual circumstances | Apply through oiss.ucsb.edu |
| UCSB EAP Gaucho Scholarship | Students participating in UCSB’s Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) | $2,000 – $3,000 | Apply via eap.ucsb.edu |
| UCSB EAP Piccus Scholarship | LGBTQ+ students involved with RCSGD applying for a year-long UCEAP program | $5,000 | Apply via UCSB EAP; must be affiliated with RCSGD |
| Gilman International Scholarship | U.S. citizens receiving Pell Grants pursuing study abroad (especially critical-need languages) | Up to $5,000 (or $8,000 with language supplement) | Apply via gilmanscholarship.org |
UC Santa Barbara Accommodation 2025
Choosing where to live is a big part of your student experience—and at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB), it’s not just about a place to sleep. Whether you want the convenience and community of on-campus housing or the flexibility and independence of off-campus living, UCSB offers options to fit every lifestyle and budget.
In 2023–2024, over 10,000 students lived in university housing, with thousands more choosing off-campus spots nearby in Isla Vista and Goleta. From beachfront dorms to cozy shared apartments, UCSB students enjoy not only academic excellence but also the unique experience of living in one of California’s most stunning coastal regions. Following is the overview of UCSB On-Campus & Off-Campus Accommodation:
| Accommodation Type | Estimated Annual Cost (USD) | Monthly Rent (USD) | Inclusions |
| Residence Halls (On-Campus) | $13,000 – $16,000 | $1,100 – $1,400 | Fully furnished rooms, shared lounges, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, meal plans |
| Apartments (University-Managed) | $9,500 – $13,500 | $850 – $1,200 | Private/shared apartments, kitchen access, utilities included |
| Family Student Housing | $10,000 – $14,000 | $850 – $1,200 | Two-bedroom units for students with dependents or spouses |
| Off-Campus Shared Apartment | $800 – $1,200 | $800 – $1,200 | Typically shared with roommates, utilities may vary |
| Private Studio (Off-Campus) | $1,300 – $1,800 | $1,300 – $1,800 | Solo living, includes kitchenette and private bath |
| Homestays / Private Rentals | $900 – $1,300 | $900 – $1,300 | May include meals or utilities; ideal for quiet living or cultural immersion |
Conclusion
And there you have it—UC Santa Barbara in a nutshell! From its rankings and diverse course offerings to generous scholarships and scenic accommodations, UCSB truly brings together academic excellence and that laid-back California charm. If you’ve got the grades, the passion, and the drive, UCSB could be your perfect academic playground.
Worried about where to live? Don’t be! Whether you go for an on-campus residence hall or a private off-campus studio, there are plenty of options to suit your lifestyle and budget. And if you need a little help navigating it all, University Living is here to make the process stress-free—helping you find safe, verified, and student-friendly housing near UCSB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UC Santa Barbara acceptance rate in 2025?
The UC Santa Barbara acceptance rate for 2025 is approximately 32.9%, making it a highly selective university. Out of over 110,000 applicants, around 36,312 students were admitted.
What are the most popular courses at UC Santa Barbara for international students?
Some of the top courses among international students at UC Santa Barbara include Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Economics, and Psychology.
What are the tuition fees at UC Santa Barbara for international students?
Annual tuition fees for international students at UC Santa Barbara typically range between $45,000 – $50,000 (approx. ₹37 – ₹42 lakhs), depending on the course and level of study.
How is UC Santa Barbara ranked globally in 2025?
In 2025, UC Santa Barbara ranks:
#178 in QS World University Rankings
#67 in Times Higher Education (THE) Global University Rankings
#39 among National Universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report)
#8 among Top Public Universities (Forbes)
What scholarships are available at UC Santa Barbara in 2025?
UCSB offers a variety of scholarships, including:
Regents Scholarship: $6,000 honorarium for top 1–2% students
International Student Award: For F-1/J-1 visa holders in financial need
Gaucho & Piccus Scholarships: For study abroad participants
Gilman Scholarship: Up to $8,000 for Pell Grant recipients
What is the required English proficiency for UCSB?
Accepted English language exams and their minimum scores at UC Santa Barbara:
TOEFL: 80+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 115+ (varies by course)
What is the average GPA required for admission to UCSB?
The average unweighted high school GPA for admitted students at UCSB is around 4.3, with a middle 50% GPA range of 4.13 to 4.29.
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