University of California-Santa Barbara
About
Renowned for its stunning coastal campus directly on the Pacific Ocean, the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) is a premier public research institution best known for its top-tier College of Engineering, pioneering environmental science programs, and the unique, application-only College of Creative Studies. The student experience masterfully balances rigorous academic drive with a collaborative, outdoorsy lifestyle, where students transition seamlessly from high-level laboratory research to surfing and socializing in the adjacent, bike-friendly community of Isla Vista. What truly sets UCSB apart is its rare combination of a world-class faculty—which includes six Nobel Laureates—and an exceptional commitment to hands-on undergraduate research, allowing students to co-author papers and work alongside leading experts right from their first year.
Wikipedia:The University of California, Santa Barbara is a public land-grant research university in Santa Barbara County, California, United States. Tracing its roots back to 1891 as an independent teachers college, UC Santa Barbara joined the University of California system in 1944. It is the third-oldest campus in the system, after Berkeley, and UCLA.
Location
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Admissions
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Essay Requirements
This school does not appear to use the Common Application. Check the school's admissions website directly for essay requirements and application instructions.
See the current Common App essay prompts for the personal statement options.
Outcomes
Student Body
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if University of California-Santa Barbara is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.