How much is tuition at University of California-Santa Barbara?

Tuition at University of California-Santa Barbara is $14,965 per year.

What is the average salary for graduates of University of California-Santa Barbara?

Graduates of University of California-Santa Barbara earn a median salary of $74,915 per year.

Where is University of California-Santa Barbara located?

University of California-Santa Barbara is located in Santa Barbara, California, United States.

Public Institution

University of California-Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, California

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Annual Tuition $14,965

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 27.8%

Highly Selective

Enrollment 23,205

Active Students

Avg. Salary $74,915

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Santa Barbara, California

Institution type Public

Accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"University of California-Santa Barbara stands as a pillar of higher education in Santa Barbara, providing a robust academic foundation for 23,205 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does California-Santa Barbara offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at University of California-Santa Barbara. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Social Sciences

26.8%

Enrollment Share

Biological Sciences

11%

Enrollment Share

Psychology

9.8%

Enrollment Share

Mathematics

9.3%

Enrollment Share

Communications

8.6%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts

5.3%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Social Sciences College

The Social Sciences program at University of California-Santa Barbara provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Biological Sciences College

The Biological Sciences program at University of California-Santa Barbara provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior and mental health. It provides a solid foundation for careers in counseling, research, and social services.

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at California-Santa Barbara?

Highly Selective

Acceptance Rate 27.8%

Avg. SAT Score N/A

Out of 1600

ACT Midpoint N/A

Out of 36

SAT Section Breakdown

Evidence-Based Reading & Writing N/A

Math N/A

ACT Section Breakdown

English N/A

Math N/A

How much does California-Santa Barbara cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $14,965

Out-of-State Tuition $45,742

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 28%

Median Student Debt $13,993

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $14,965, graduates see a median starting salary of $74,915, making it one of the most affordable pathways in California.

What salary can California-Santa Barbara graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $74,915

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 85.3%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $13,825

Median Salary (6yr) $56,852

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at California-Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara?

23,205 Students

Gender Comparison

43% Men

57% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

91.9%

Retention First-year

97.6%

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

White

31.7%

Hispanic

26%

Asian

18.7%

International

9.8%

Two or More Races

8.9%

Unknown / Unreported

2.7%

Black

American Indian / Alaska Native

0.2%

Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander

0.1%

International Student Profile

University of California-Santa Barbara supports a diverse global community with students from over 40 countries.

9.8% Global Enrollment

Campus Demographics

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Avg. Age at Entry 20

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First-Generation 42.4%

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Receive Pell Grant 72.8%

💍

Married Students 0.6%

📅

Students Age 25+ 2.2%

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Retention (Part-time) 63.6%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$73,046
Average Family Income	$56,328
Median Family Income	$36,166

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

58.1%

41.9%

Women Men

Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1 students per faculty member

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Santa Barbara Campus Environment

Located at 5221 Cheadle Hall, University of California-Santa Barbara offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of California. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

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Common Questions about University of California-Santa Barbara

What is the acceptance rate at University of California-Santa Barbara?

University of California-Santa Barbara has an acceptance rate of 27.8%. This indicates a student-centered admission policy that provides accessible pathways for a diverse range of applicants. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot.

How much does it cost to attend University of California-Santa Barbara per year?

The estimated annual tuition is $14,965. However, the 'Net Price'—what students actually pay after grants and scholarships—is often much lower. For many families, financial aid packages can reduce the out-of-pocket cost significantly, making University of California-Santa Barbara a valuable investment in your future.

What are the most popular degrees offered at University of California-Santa Barbara?

University of California-Santa Barbara is widely recognized for its strong programs in various academic fields. These areas represent the college\'s commitment to professional preparation and academic rigor, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the modern workforce.

Does University of California-Santa Barbara offer career support and job placement services?

Yes, University of California-Santa Barbara provides comprehensive career development services, including resume workshops, interview coaching, and active job placement networks. The institution maintains strong ties with local industries in Santa Barbara, facilitating internships and career opportunities for graduates.

What is the campus culture like at University of California-Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara?

Located in Santa Barbara, the campus offers a vibrant and inclusive environment. With a student body of 23,205, learners have access to numerous clubs, athletic programs, and cultural events. The college emphasizes a supportive community that fosters both personal growth and academic success.

What kind of ROI can I expect from a degree at University of California-Santa Barbara?

Graduates of University of California-Santa Barbara see a median early-career salary of $74,915. When compared to the affordable tuition rates, this represents a strong return on investment. The institution focuses on high-impact degrees that translate directly into professional stability and earnings growth.

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2026 Rankings: California

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare University of California-Santa Barbara with other leading institutions in California across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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