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


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.
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.
Institution provide on-campus housing
YesInstitution provides board or meal plan
Data not availableAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
YesTuition guaranteed plan
Data not availablePrepaid tuition plan
YesUndergraduate average amount
$19,022All
$21,732Undergraduate average amount
$30,937Graduate average amount
$55,725Students 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
$8,910Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$11,398Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$16,839Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$30,085