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University of California-Santa Barbara

1210 Cheadle Hall, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-2014, USA

University of California-Santa Barbara award
University of California-Santa Barbara award
US ranking
position: 32
Tuition & fees per year: $16,950
Acceptance rate: 28.00%
Median alumni salary: $38,259
Avg. SAT and ACT: N/A
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What is the cost of studying for a year at University of California-Santa Barbara?

The cost of attending University of California-Santa Barbara varies significantly depending on residency status and level of study. For full-time in-state undergraduate students, tuition is $11,834, placing it in the bottom 25% nationwide for affordability. However, mandatory fees for these students amount to $3,131, which ranks among the highest 15% compared to other institutions.

Out-of-state undergraduates face a considerably higher tuition of $42,611, classified within the top 20% for expense, accompanied by the same high fees of $3,131. Graduate tuition for in-state students is $12,264, reflecting an average cost level within the bottom 40%, paired with fees of $2,189 that fall into the top 20% in terms of cost. Out-of-state graduate students pay $27,366 in tuition, ranked in the top 30%, with fees again at $2,189.

Combining tuition and fees, the overall figure for in-state students stands at $16,950 annually, which is considered low and sits within the bottom 25% nationally. This total is still below the US average annual cost for in-state students at four-year public colleges, which is $25,707.

Room and board charges at University of California-Santa Barbara are notably high, amounting to $21,627 per year and ranking among the top 5% nationwide. This contributes significantly to the total cost of attendance, pushing expenses above many peer institutions.

When factoring in tuition, fees, and room and board, the total annual cost for in-state students approximates $38,577. This exceeds the average annual cost for in-state attendance at a four-year public college but remains considerably lower than the cost typically expected for out-of-state students, which on average is $44,014 nationally.

What are the work-study opportunities at University of California-Santa Barbara?

University of California-Santa Barbara offers various work-study opportunities designed to support students financially while gaining valuable experience. Eligible students may find employment through federally funded work-study programs, which typically provide positions both on-campus and in community service roles. These jobs allow students to earn wages that help cover education and living expenses.

On-campus employment options include roles in libraries, administrative offices, research departments, and student services, providing a diverse range of opportunities to develop professional skills in different environments. Additionally, internships connected to academic disciplines are available, enabling students to acquire hands-on experience directly related to their fields of study.

For international students, work-study eligibility is generally limited due to federal restrictions; however, the university facilitates other employment opportunities compliant with visa regulations, such as on-campus jobs and internships authorized under specific conditions. Pay rates for work-study positions usually reflect minimum or slightly higher hourly wages based on the nature of the work and student qualifications, although exact averages were not specified.

University of California-Santa Barbara Tuition and Fees

Avg. tuition and fees $16,950
Tuition and fees
Avg. room and board charges $21,627
Room and board charges
Avg. books and supplies $1,485
Books and supplies

Total Cost

Avg. total cost $40,062
Total average cost of education at the institution, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies

University of California-Santa Barbara Room and Board Cost

Institution provide on-campus housing

Yes

Institution provides board or meal plan

Data not available

University of California-Santa Barbara Tuition Plans

Any alternative tuition plans offered by institution

Yes

Tuition guaranteed plan

Data not available

Prepaid tuition plan

Yes

University of California-Santa Barbara Financial Aid

Undergraduate average amount

$19,022

All

$21,732

Number of Students Receiving Financial Aid

58 %

University of California-Santa Barbara Military and Veterans Benefits

Undergraduate average amount

$30,937

Graduate average amount

$55,725

University of California-Santa Barbara Federal Financial Aid

Students awarded Title IV federal financial aid (2023-2024)

Average net price (income 30,001-48,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19

$8,910

Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19

$11,398

Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19

$16,839

Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19

$30,085