Overview
Founded in 1891 as a teachers' college, UCSB joined the University of California system in 1944 and has since grown into one of the nation's premier public research universities. It is a member of the Association of American Universities and consistently ranks among the top public universities for research productivity, with particular strength in physics, materials science, and engineering, fields in which its faculty have earned multiple Nobel Prizes. The campus is home to the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics, reflecting its deep commitment to cutting-edge scientific inquiry.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Santa Barbara, California |
| Founded | 1891 |
| Total students | 26,600 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 26% |
| Graduation rate | 86% |
| Average starting salary | $68,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $14,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $46,900 |
| Room & board | $18,000 |
| Average financial aid | $19,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 62% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1260-1470 |
| ACT range | 26-33 |
| Average GPA | 4.15 |
| Regular deadline | November 30 |
Top Programs
- Physics
- Chemical Engineering
- Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Computer Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.