Quick Summary
Public research university in Santa Barbara, United States — University of California, Santa Barbara, est. 1891. Ranked #178 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 26421 students including 15% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, it maintains an acceptance rate of 26%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Combines a world-class Tier 1 research environment with a unique beach-side lifestyle and a collaborative student culture.
Subject Strengths
PhysicsMaterials ScienceEngineeringCommunicationEnvironmental ScienceMarine Biology
Founded1891
TypePublic Research University
Total Students26421
Intl Students15%
Faculty Ratio18
CampusCoastal/Suburban
Campus Size1,055 acres
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationWASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#178
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#69
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#63
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctoral,Professional
Programs
50
PhD Programs
Limited (Professional and Extension)
Online Programs
Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics,Materials Research Laboratory,National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis,California NanoSystems Institute
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate26%
IELTS7
TOEFL80
Min GPA3.4
GREVaries by department
GMATVaries by department
SATNot considered for admission
ACTNot considered for admission
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · November 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on the Personal Insight Questions to highlight leadership, creativity, and community involvement. UCSB values holistic review beyond grades.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$46,326/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$21,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$33,282/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$80
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$68,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$15,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctoral,Professional programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Biological and Biomedical Sciences | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Engineering | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Communication | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$68,000
Average Salary After Graduation
90%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong
Industry Connections
Extensive connections in Silicon Valleytech industriesand environmental agencies.
Notable Alumni
Michael Douglas,Gwyneth Paltrow,Carol Greider,Jack Johnson,Reza Aslan
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
The Thunderdome,Pauley Pavilion,RecCen,Harder Stadium
Student Clubs
500
Library Resources
Davidson Library,Special Research Collections,Music Library
Exchange Programs
University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP)
Summer Programs
Available