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UC Santa Cruz: Rankings, Cost, Programs
2000 acre campus- Estd. 1965
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Last updated on 2 Dec '24, by Nikita Peter (Study Abroad Expert)UCSCWhat’s new?
- The applications for international students seeking admission to the University of California Santa Cruz will open on Nov 1, 2025.
- The application submission deadline for international students is Nov 30, 2025.
- About UC Santa Cruz
- UC Santa Cruz Popular Programs
- UC Santa Cruz Scholarships
- UC Santa Cruz Admissions 2025
- UC Santa Cruz Fees
- UCSC Student Reviews
- UC Santa Cruz Placements
- UC Santa Cruz Rankings
- UCSC College comparison
- UCSC Student profile
- Studying in USA
- UC Santa Cruz Notable Alumni
- UC Santa Cruz Campus Life
- UC Santa Cruz Vs University of California, LA Vs Arizona State
- UC Santa Cruz
About UC Santa Cruz
The university offers a vibrant campus comprising 10 residential colleges, more than 150 organizations exposure to art and culture, campus events, and many more. The total number of students at UCSC based on the 2023 data was 19,764 with over 17,812 undergraduates and around 1952 graduate students. According to the top-ranking publishers the University of California Santa Cruz ranked #201-250 in 2024 in World University Rankings. Shiksha Abroad study grading system has granted the university an overall grade of A. Some of the notable alumni of UC Santa Cruz are Andy Samberg, an American actor, comedian, and musician, Susan Wojcicki the former CEO of YouTube and Jonah Peretti, the Co-founder and the CEO of Buzzfeed and Co-founder of the Huffington Post in addition to 9 winners of 11 Pulitzer Prizes and 7 MacArthur ‘genius’ Awards.
UC Santa Cruz History
The University of California Santa Cruz was established in 1965, gaining the recognition of “the most significant educational experiment in the history of the University of California” as quoted by the then UC President Clark Kerr. Known for the beauty that surrounds the university, UC SC is in and around a redwood forest. Spreading across 2,000 acres the UCSC’s main campus is located 75 miles south of San Francisco, in the Ben Lomond Mountain ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The university began with the ultimate motive of showcasing progressive, innovative teaching methods, cross-disciplinary undergraduate education, and contemporary architecture. UC Santa Cruz is a public land-grant research university. Satellite facilities in other Santa Cruz locations comprise the Coastal Science Campus, the Westside Research Park, and the Silicon Valley Center in Santa Cruz. The UC SC Silicon Valley Campus is a multidisciplinary hub for research, and teaching relevant to the Tech and Engineering industry.
Some important things to know about the University of California Santa Cruz are mentioned below-
| Particulars | Validations |
|---|---|
| UC Santa Cruz Acceptance Rate | Around 46% |
| UC Santa Cruz Public or Private | Public |
| UC Santa Cruz Total no. of Students | 19,764 |
| UC Santa Cruz Ranking | #201-250 |
| UC Santa Cruz IELTS Score | 6.5 or above |
| UC Santa Cruz Top 5 Courses |
|
The University of California Serves an acceptance rate is around 46% thus making admissions moderately competitive. The university offers 73 undergraduate majors and 66 graduate programs popularly known for their excellence and innovation in the fields of Agroecology, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Feminist Studies, Linguistics, Marine Science, and Policy and many more. Some of the top courses offered at UC Santa Cruz are computer science, behavioral sciences, business and economics, sociology, political science, and government. The acceptance rate of UC SC is around 46% thus making admissions moderately competitive. The international first-year applicants are expected to have a GPA of 3.0 to be admitted to the university.
According to recent statistics the graduates of the University of Santa Cruz work in top organizations such as Google, Amazon, Kaiser Permanente, and research. The graduates of this course work as educationists, Business developers, engineers or researchers. The UC Santa Cruz alumni in tech jobs earn an average of $136,978 per annum according to the information available on the web.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Does UC Santa Cruz accept international students?
UC Santa Cruz offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs to international students. In addition to that international students with valid visas are also eligible for the Regents Scholarship which is the highest honor awarded by the university based on the academic achievement of the students.
Q: Why should I choose UCSC?
University of California Santa Cruz ranks #201-250 in World University in 2024 and is the #82 National university according to the top-ranking publishers. By providing 73 undergraduate majors and 66 graduate programs the students have a wide range of options to choose from based on their interests and experiences. The university provides top courses such as computer science, behavioral sciences, business and economics, sociology, political Science and government. Besides the academic excellence that the university provides, campus life also serves as an advantage as it provides exposure to its students to multiple cultures and people of different backgrounds. The scenic location of the campus is something the students will enjoy. There are multiple internship opportunities provided to the students to gain hands-on experience in various industries. Lastly, according to the information on the web many graduates work in top organizations such as google, apple, amazon thus opening opportunities for many graduates to land jobs in top organizations as well.
Q: What is the general reputation of UC Santa Cruz?
There are certain subjective perceptions and criteria individuals hold when evaluating the University of California Santa Cruz. Due to its unique grading system many hold the perception that it is a more experimental and non-traditional campus. Despite holding strong strengths in fields of astronomy, science, marine biology and environmental studies the university may not hold that equal strength in some other courses that other universities might. Hence, resulting in a rise of assumptions. Thus, it is advisable to make your decisions based on the programme you wish to pursue, your budget, faculty expertise, research and internship opportunities, campus, culture, location and your educational goals.
Q: Does UC Santa Cruz offer any placement opportunities to graduate students?
The graduates of the University of California Santa Cruz procure multiple placement opportunities in a variety of organizations and sectors. Some of the organizations in which the graduates of UCSC are employed are LinkedIn, Tesla, Adobe, Cisco, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, and others. Some of the sectors in which the graduates of the University of California Santa Cruz are employed are Consulting, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, Sales, Information Technology, and many more.
Q: What are the top 3 majors at University of California Santa Cruz?
The University of California offers more than 73 majors and 43 minors at the undergraduate level and 66+ graduate programs. At the undergraduate level, the University of California Santa Cruz offers top programs in Community studies, Chemistry, Art, History of Art and Visual Culture, Psychology, Theater Arts, Sociology and more. At the graduate level the university offers programs across divisions of Arts, Engineering, Humanities, Physical & Biological sciences, Social sciences etc. comprising of various degree types like M.F.A in Digital Arts & New Media, Social Documentation, Ph.D. in Film & Digital Media, Visual Studies, Applied Mathematics and M.A in History, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and other diverse programs.
UC Santa Cruz Popular Programs
The UCSC provides a wide range of undergraduate and post graduate programs to students. Securing the reputation of having one out of their 10 colleges chosen by undergraduate students, the University of California ensures exposure to history, academic support, activities, and events. With 73 majors and 43 minors in the undergraduate program and 66 postgraduate programs, the University of California popular programs vary across fields of Art, Engineering, Physical, and Biological Sciences. The University of California Santa Cruz offers courses across multiple disciplines such as Arts, Humanities, Social Science, Science, and Baskin School of Engineering. The duration of the Undergraduate course offered by UCSC is usually 4 years. The duration of the graduate course offered by the University of California Santa Cruz varies according to the program the student opts for.
The pie chart given below offers information on the various courses offered by the University of California Santa Cruz
Note: The 'Others' in the pie chart refer to some popular courses such as Marketing, International/Global Studies, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, etc
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: Does the University of California Santa Cruz offers postgraduate programs to international students?
Yes, the University of California Santa Cruz offers a number of postgraduate programs to international students. The University of California Santa Cruz offers more than 60+ degree tracks in 66 graduate programs across five divisions. The five academic divisions of UC Santa Cruz are:
- Arts Division
- Engineering Division
- Humanities Division
- Physical And Biological Sciences Division
- Social Sciences Division
Q: Which Bachelors course is best to pursue at the University of California, Santa Cruz?
The University of Calfornia Santa Cruz offers more than 73 majors and 43 minors at the undergraduate level. Some of the best Bachelor courses offered by UCSC include B.A. in Agroecology, B.A. in Anthropology, Applied Physics, Biology, Arts & Design, Chemistry, and others. The duration of Undergraduate courses offered by the University is usually for 4 years. The undergraduate courses offered by UCSC offers students with both theoretical and practical knowledge.
UC Santa Cruz Scholarships
Acknowledging the academic achievements of the students, The University of California Santa Cruz provides Campus Merit Scholarships. The Regents Scholarship carries the highest honor award by providing $20,000 to new freshmen paid over 4 years. Additionally, priority enrollment and priority university housing placement are also provided. First year students are eligible for a 4-year or 12 quarter award duration. Students are expected to maintain a cumulative UCSC GPA of 2.0 to maintain The Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (FA SAP). UC SC offers its full-time undergraduate students 180 credit hours or 4 years. Submission of Financial aid application by the deadline is of highest importance since most of the scholarships have a financial need criterion. International students are offered the Dean’s Award scholarship. Other campus scholarships based on various committees outside of financial aid are also included.
Regents Scholarship at the University of California Santa Cruz-
- Regents Scholarship is provided to undergraduate students.
- Freshmen are given $20,000 (INR 1,670,490) paid over four years.
Dean’s Scholarship at the University of California Santa Cruz-
- International students are eligible for Dean’s Scholarship
- First-year students receive awards ranging from $12,000-$54,000 (INR 1,002,644- 4,511,899) paid evenly over the four years.
this University
4 exclusive scholarships available41.8 L worth total scholarship amountWe have helped students get 30Cr+ in scholarships
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: Are there any scholarships for international students offered by UC Santa Cruz?
International students are generally eligible for student loans and are eligible for very few scholarships. International students are not eligible for need based federal aid since it is reserved for US citizens and permanent residents. International undergraduate students with valid visas are eligible for the Regents Scholarship, the highest honor awarded by the university based on the students' academic achievement. Graduates of an Indian or Pakistani University are eligible for the Guru Gobind Singh Fellowship which is aimed at providing support to students enrolled in the master's course of Economics and Finance, MS in human computer interaction in the University of California Santa Cruz. The maximum scholarship per student is $30,000 (INR 2,506,038).
Q: What are the factors that need to be kept in mind in order to secure a scholarship at UCSC?
Only new and continuing California residents who have completed their UC admissions application by the deadline are eligible for the scholarships. To be considered for all scholarships, students are required to complete their financial aid application by the beginning of March every year. Mention your unique characteristics in the “scholarship” section of the admission application. Students are expected to maintain a cumulative UCSC GPA of 2.0 to maintain The Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (FA SAP). For scholarship renewals students need to enroll in 15 units each year- and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.o. U.S. citizens, eligible non-citizens and international students with a valid visa are eligible for the Regents Scholarships.
Q: What is the Deans scholarship offered at UCSC?
The newly admitted out of state and international first year and are automatically considered for the undergraduate Dean’s Award. First year students receive awards ranging from $12,000-$54,000 (INR 1,002,644- 4,511,899) paid evenly over the four years. In case a student becomes a California resident the scholarship will be automatically discontinued.
Q: Does UC Santa Cruz give scholarships?
The University of California Santa Cruz does offer scholarships to international students. The University gives scholarships on a merit basis, and more than 40% of international students at UC Santa Cruz take scholarships from the university. However, the scholarships are given under The Sara Matthews Scholarship which are awarded by ISSS and is granted to deserving undergraduate, F-1 or J-1 international students of Sophomore or Junior standing at UCSC with a 3.5 GPA or higher. This scholarship is to help with educational costs. Selected UCSC international students will receive a scholarship ranging from $1,000-$5,000.
UC Santa Cruz Admissions 2025
The University of California Santa Cruz admissions 2025 application deadline is Nov 30, 2025. The university accepts only one application from each candidate per calendar year (winter-fall). UC SC will not accept any SAT or ACT scores for admission decisions or scholarship awards. Application to multiple departments will not be considered. On-time submission of all required documents for UCSC admission should be treated with utmost importance and submitted before the deadline. UCSC admissions take place in three intakes i.e. Fall, Winter, and Spring Semester.
Application Deadlines 2025
The application deadline for international students seeking admission to the University of California Santa Cruz for the Fall semester intake 2025 is Nov 30, 2025. The applications for undergraduate students will open on Nov 1, 2025.
Admission Requirements for International Students
The student should have completed their X and XII with the State Board or CBSE Examination with above 70 average marks
When filling out the application, the students are required to fill in the entire academic history report
Students are required to keep their transcripts handy to ensure the filling of correct information
A letter of recommendation can be asked during the later stages of the application process
Submit the English Language Proficiency Test Scores
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate for international students at UCSC is around 46%, hence making admissions to the university somewhat selective and competitive
Application Fee
The application fee for international students applying to UCSC is USD 95 (INR 7,976). The application fee is non-refundable
Eligibility
The minimum English Language Proficiency Test scores are mentioned below-
| English Language Proficiency Test | Minimum Test Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 or higher |
| TOEFL | 80 or higher |
| Duolingo | 115 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: How can I apply to the University of California Santa Cruz as an international student?
The University of California Santa Cruz offers more than 100+ degree programs at undergraduate and graduate levels to international students. The UC Santa Cruz is part of the University of California system, therefore, international students are required to fill online application form through the ‘Common Application’ admission portal of the University of California system. You will be asked to choose which campus you wish to apply for.
Q: What is the deadline for UC Santa Cruz admission application?
The University of California Santa Cruz accepts admissions in three intakes i.e. Fall, Winter, and the Summer Semester. The applications for Fall 2025 intake begin on Oct 1, 2024, and the application deadline is Nov 30, 2024. The admission application forms will be considered for the scholarship applications as well. The application fee for international students seeking admission to the University of California Santa Cruz is USD 95 (INR 7,976). Students must meet all the admission and eligibility requirements to increase their chances of acceptance.
Q: Is admission to the University of California Santa Cruz difficult?
The acceptance rate for international students at the University of California Santa Cruz is around 46%, making admissions to the university somewhat competitive and selective. students must secure the minimum English Language Proficiency test score in either IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo to increase their chances of acceptance at UCSC.
Q: What are the admission requirements for international students at University of California Santa Cruz?
Primarily, if your secondary schools, colleges or university weren’t in English, the students are required to take an English language test. Minimum of 6.5 or higher score is required for IELTS, minimum score of iBT test is 80 or more and Duolingo English test requires a minimum of 115 score. A passport from your home country and a visa from the U.S. is a must. A student visa will only be granted if the student provides written evidence demonstrating their adequate financial resources for the entire time till the completion of the degree. Additionally, a variety of housing options are available to the UC students, however some require early applications.
Q: How can I get admission in UCSC?
Below is the application process for University of California Santa Cruz:
The University of California Santa Cruz application process may vary depending on the course and level of study you choose. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses.
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: Applicants must create an account on the official website.
Step 2: Complete the application; the applicant must fill in their details
Step 3: Applicants must choose their interested course and be aware that each UC school they apply to requires an application fee of USD 80 (international application fee). If you can apply for Waiver, you can apply to UCSC for free.
Want to waive off application fee at US University? However, you can check out: Application fee waivers for US universities.
Step 4: Ensure you meet the English language requirements for your chosen course.
Step 5: Applicants must upload their SAT/ACT scores for UG programs
Step 6: LORs, Personal insights and transcripts of the applicant's 12th marks are essential while applying to the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Step 7: If the applicant is selected, the university will notify the applicant through the mail they signed in.
The Postgraduate Application Process:
Applicants must create an account on the official website.
Step 2: Complete the application; the applicant must fill in their details
Step 3: Applicants must choose their interested course and be aware that each UC they apply to requires an application fee of USD 155 ( international students) for postgraduate programs. If you can apply for Waiver, you can apply to UCSC for free.
However, you can check out: Application fee waivers for US universities
Step 4: Ensure you meet the English language requirements for your chosen course.
Step 5: Applicants must have completed their degrees and have their transcripts ready.
Step 6: LORs ( 3 LOR), GRE, Personal insights and work experience (Depending on the course) essential while applying to the University of California Santa Cruz
Step 7: If the applicant is selected, the university will notify the applicant through the mail they signed in.
UC Santa Cruz Fees
The University of California Santa Cruz tuition fee for undergraduate international students for 2024-25 is approx. USD 16,014 (INR 1,344,527). Other expenses that need to be taken into consideration include living expenses, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, campus health insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses. The rough estimate of certain expenses that need to be taken into consideration when applying to the University of California Santa Cruz besides the tuition fee is mentioned below-
| Expenses | On-Campus Cost |
|---|---|
| Living Expenses | USD 19,950 (INR 1,675,160) |
| Books, Course Material | USD 1,194 (INR 100,257) |
| Transportation |
USD 1,044 (INR 87,662) |
| Personal Expenses | USD 2,286 (INR 191,950) |
| Campus Health Insurance | USD 3,672 (INR 308,330) |
Note: The tuition fee and other expenses mentioned above are rough estimates
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(2 courses) | INR 28 L - 42 L | Duration: 1 year-15 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 83 - 100 |
B.E. / B.Tech(3 courses) | INR 37 L - 38 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
B.A.(1 course) | INR 38 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 28 L | Duration: 1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 83 & Above |
B.Sc.(1 course) | INR 38 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: How can I score 8.5 in IELTS listening?
IELTS Listening is a scoring section and it is possible to score 8.5 with a plan and strategy. Candidates can use some tips and rules to score 8.5 in IELTS Listening.
Q: Is IELTS reading very difficult?
In comparison to other modules of the IELTS examination, the reading section is one of the most difficult sections. Candidates can develop their skills using some IELTS Reading tips and tricks for a higher score in the reading section.
Q: Is University of California Santa Cruz an expensive University?
International students applying for admission to the University of California Santa Cruz are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of USD 95 (INR 7,976). Besides the application fee, the approximately on-campus tuition fee for students at UCSC is USD 16,014 (INR 1,344,447). Other expenses such as living costs, personal expenses, cost of living, cost of books, course material, supplies, equipment, and transportation expenses also need to be taken into consideration.
Q: What GPA do you need to go to UC Santa Cruz?
University of California Santa Cruz campus admission criteria for out-of-state applicants differ from California residents. Non-residents must achieve a GPA of 3.40 or higher on a scale of 4. However the university considers various factors beyond GPA, including standardised test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and LOR. This approach shows that the university does a holistic review while checking the applicant's form.
Q: What are the University of California Santa Cruz English requirements?
UCSCStudents Ratings & Reviews
1 Verified Review
- Multi-dimensional
- Friendly
- 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
UC Santa Cruz Placements
The University of California Santa Cruz offers a great deal on placements to its students. Large amount of UCSC Alumni work in top organizations such as Amazon, Google, Apple, Kaiser Permanente holding the position of an educationist, Business developer, engineer, or researcher. University of California Santa Cruz also provides a wide range of on-campus internships allowing the students to explore diverse fields of interest such as the Chancellor's Undergraduate Internship program, and Health Sciences Internship. Some sectors in which the graduates of UCSC are employed are Education, Business Development, Engineering, Operations, Research, and others.
The pie chart given below provides information on the various placement opportunities for the graduates of UC Santa Cruz
Note: The 'Others' in the pie chart refers to placements such as Product Management, Consulting, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing,etc
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: What are some of the summer internships provided by UCSC?
The UCSC provides several internships to its students. Cogen Power Plant Operator Internship is a summer internship providing industrial experience as operators in their organization. The internship aims at building a strong foundation for individuals interested in pursuing careers in fields involving efficient management of crucial infrastructure systems. Another summer internship is Nature Explorer Summer Camp Intern where the Santa Cruz Museum of national history invites the interested students to gain experience in outdoor education, childhood development and be a part of their 7-week long nature explorers summer camp. A monthly stipend is also awarded upon the completion of the internship.
Q: What is the Health Science Internship offered at the University of California Santa Cruz?
The students of Human Biology majors are required to undertake an internship at a health care facility in the Monterey Bay Area or elsewhere. The aim of the internship is to ensure exposure to students in gaining first-hand experience with the type of issues faced by the healthcare professionals along with the skills required to counter the same. Interns complete 80 hours at their placement over the course of the quarter. The internship takes place around April during the fall. The winter timings for the same are yet to be announced by The University of California Santa Cruz. Students are required to submit a google form application along with their resume, letter of intent and proof of health insurance.
UC Santa Cruz Rankings
The University of California Santa Cruz ranking for 2024 according to the top-ranking publishers is #201-250. In the previous year, UCSC secured a rank of #192. According to the Shiksha Study Abroad grading system, the university has been graded an overall A. Some courses offered by the University of California Santa Cruz have also been graded by the Shiksha Study Abroad Grading system. The list is mentioned below.
|
Programs Offered |
Shiiksha Study Abroad Grading |
|---|---|
|
Biology |
B++ |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
C++ |
|
Computer Science engineering |
B+ |
|
Electrical engineering |
B+ |
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: Is the University of California Santa Cruz a good University of California Santa Cruz?
The University of California Santa Cruz is one of the best public research universities in the United States. It is part of the prestigious University of California system. The university is consistently ranked best in national and international rankings. The QS World University Rankings for the University of California Santa Cruz is #332 for 2024. Meanwhile, the U.S. News and World Report 2023 ranked the University of California #105 in the category of international universities and #83 in the category of national universities.
Q: Is The University of California Santa Cruz a top university?
The University of California Santa Cruz is one of the top public Universities in the United States of America. The University secured the rank of #201-250 in 2024 in the World University ranking according to the top-ranking publishers. The University of California Santa Cruz has been graded an overall A by the Shiksha Study Abroad Grading system. Some of the top courses offered by UCSC such as Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science Engineering, and Electrical Engineering have also been graded by the Shiksha Study Abroad grading system with C+, B+, and B+ respectively.
Q: Which courses offered by the University of California Santa Cruz holds the highest ranking?
The University of California Santa Cruz secured the rank of #201-250 in 2024 in World University Rankings. According to the Shiksha study abroad grading system Biology (B+), Biomedical Engineering (C+), Computer Science (B+) and Electrical Engineering (B+) are some of the grading of the courses offered by the university of California Santa Cruz. Some of the courses offered by the University of California Santa Cruz have also been ranked by the top-ranking publishers. the list of the rankings is mentioned below-
| Courses Offered | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | #151-175 |
| Computer Science | #176-200 |
| Education | #176-200 |
| Engineering | #201-250 |
| Life Science | #126-150 |
Q: What is the world rank of University of California Santa Cruz?
According to THE (Times Higher Education) and QS, University of California - Santa Cruz Campus ranksas one of the top universities in the world. It ranks at 192 in 2023 as per THE (Times Higher Education) University Ranking. If compared with the previous year’s ranking by QS World University Ranking, it is observe that the rankings have been Improving in the 2024 at 332 when compared to 2023 at 375.
UCSCCollege comparison
Compare UCSC with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
UCSC | INR 27.71 L - 42.3 L | A | #84 US News, 2025 |
Pratt Institute  Compare | INR 25.35 L | -/- | -/- |
Bentley University Compare | INR 29.97 L - 49.42 L | -/- | -/- |
Jefferson University Compare | INR 18.62 L - 31.35 L | C | #474 US News, 2024 |
UBalt Compare | INR 20.04 L | -/- | -/- |
ArtCenter College of Design Compare | INR 70.92 L | -/- | -/- |
UCSCStudent profile
Others
46%
Hispanic
28%
Asian
23%
Black
1%
In state
90%
Out of state
6%
Foreign
2%
24 and under
95%
25 and over
4%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
UCSCStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
UC Santa Cruz Notable Alumni
The University of California offers multiple well-known alumni who have excelled in various fields such as a renowned director, CEO of BuzzFeed, Actress and Comedian, and many more. Some famous alumni of UCSC are Cary Joji Fukunaga, a famous American filmmaker who are delivered some exceptional movies such as No time to Die, Jane Eyre, and others. Another well-known alumnus is Bret Samuel. The list of various notable alumni of the University of California Santa Cruz are mentioned below-
| Notable Alumni | Profession | Picture |
|---|---|---|
| Andy Samberg | American Actor, Comedian, and Musician |
|
| Maya Rudolph | American Actress |
|
| Susan Wojcicki | Former CEO of YouTube |
|
| Rebecca Romijin | American Actress & Former Model |
|
| Avika Schaffer | American Actor, Filmmaker |
|
| Jonah Peretti | Co-Founder & CEO of Buzzfeed |
|
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Q: Who is a famous alumnus of UCSC?
University of California Santa Cruz offers mulitple famous alumni. One such successul alumnus of UC Santa Cruz is Andy Samberg, casted in the famous TV show Brooklyn 99 is an American actor, comedian and musician is a notable alumnus of the university of California Santa Cruz. He studied film for 2 years from UC SC. Another well-known American Actress who is an alumnu of UC Santa Cruz is Maya Rudoplh who has been casted across various films and shows such as Loot (since 2022), Bridesmaids (2011), The Angry Birds movie 2 etc.
UC Santa Cruz Campus Life
The University of California Santa Cruz offers multiple opportunities to students to discover their passions, make friends, and make a difference in the world. UC Santa Cruz offers 10 residential colleges and over 150 organizations for students to get actively involved in along with multiple campus events. The University of California Santa Cruz presents the opportunity to its students to express themselves creatively by designing their own projects, become part of a community of creators, and enrich their lives through the diverse range of art, operas, and digital art. The university supports active participation of students in athletics that can be benefitting for the body, mind, and soul. The students can also enjoy theatre experience along with other events that the University organizes throughout the year.
Commonly asked questions On Others
Q: Does the University of California Santa Cruz offer on-campus housing facilities to students?
The University of California Santa Cruz offers more than 10 residential colleges that is supported by a strong faculty and staff who provide academic support to the students along with organisation of activities for students, and events focusing on the enhancement of intellectual and social life of the students. Post acceptance to the University, the admitted students can select their college of preference from the 10 options provided by the University. Each college community offers a diverse background and academic goal to the students. Some of the colleges offered by the University of California Santa Cruz are Cowell College, Stevenson College, Crown College, Merrill College, Porter College, College Nine, and others. Students can also go for off-campus housing facilities.
Q: Is the University of California Santa Cruz campus safe?
The safety and protection of students is of utmost importance for UCSC. The UC Santa Cruz has a on-campus police department who look into the safety and protection of the students and faculty on campus. Moreover, to increase hazard awareness among students, the University ensure routinely presentation on reduction of fire and injuries on campus and have a campus fire station as well. To ensure that the students are safe in their residential colleges and at night, UCSC also offers a Community Safety Program which is readily available for any emergency needs and also provide security for other university events as well. Hence. The university of California Santa Cruz ensures the safety and protection of its students.
UC Santa Cruz Vs University of California, LA Vs Arizona State
The University of California Santa Cruz, the University of California Los Angeles, and Arizona State University are all top-ranking universities in the United States of America. UC Santa Cruz ranked #201-250 in the World University Ranking in 2024, whereas, the University of California Los Angeles and Arizona State University secured the rank #18 and #182 in World University Ranking in 2024 according to the top-ranking publishers. Shiksha Study Abroad grading system has also graded the above-mentioned universities in terms of overall university grading. The overall grades of the University of California Santa Cruz, the University of California Los Angeles, and Arizona State University are mentioned below-
| University | Shiksha Study Abroad Grading |
|---|---|
| University of California Santa Cruz | A |
| University of California Los Angeles | A++ |
| Arizona State University | A |
Commonly asked questions On Additional Details 1
Q: Which University is better: the University of California Santa Cruz or the University of California Los Angeles?
The University of California Santa Cruz ranking for 2024 in the World University ranking was #201-250. The ranking of UCLA was #81 according to the top-ranking publishers. According to the Shiksha Study Abroad grading system UC Santa Cruz secured an overall university grade of A whereas, UCLA secured an overall grade of A+. Thus, both in terms of ranking and grading the University of California Los Angeles holds a higher ranking and grading than UC Santa Cruz. The tuition fee of UC Santa Cruz and the University of California Los Angeles are mentioned below-
| University | Tuition Fees for International Students |
|---|---|
| University of California Santa Cruz | USD 16,014 (INR 1,343,246) |
| University of California Los Angeles | USD 13,225 (INR 1,109,306) |
To determine which university is better there are other parameters that need to be taken into consideration such as the programs offered, the campus life, cost of living, and other miscellaneous expenses amongst other factors.
Q: In which University do I have a better chance of acceptance: UC Santa Cruz or Arizona State University?
The acceptance rate for students seeking admission to the University of California Santa Cruz is around 46%, making admissions to the university somewhat competitive and selective. On the other hand, the acceptance rate at Arizona State University is around 90%, making admissions to the university comparatively easy, indicating that out of 100 applicants around 90 students will be granted admission to the university. There are other factors that also determine the admission of a student seeking admission to either unviersity such as securing the minimum English Language Test Scores accepted by the University. The minimum English Language Proficiency test scores for UC Santa Cruz for IELTS and TOEFL are minimum 6.5 and 80 respectively. The minimum English Language Proficiency test scores for Arizona State University for IELTS is 6.0 and TOEFL is 61.
UC Santa Cruz
Q. What are the admission requirements at the University of California Santa Cruz for international students?
A. International students seeking admission to the University of California Santa Cruz are required to meet both the course-specific and general admission requirements. International students are advised to check for the course-specific requirements before applying. Here we provide the general admission requirements for international students:
Q. What are the English language requirements at the University of California Santa Cruz for international students?
A. English is the language of instruction for the majority of the programs at the University of California Santa Cruz. All international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. The minimum English language requirements for international students are:
|
Exam |
Score |
|---|---|
|
Minimum 80 or better |
|
|
Overall score of 6.5 or higher |
|
|
Minimum score of 115 |
Q. What is the tuition fees at the University of California Santa Cruz?
A. The University of California Santa Cruz is a public university, therefore, the tuition fees for domestic and international students may vary. The tuition fees for international students will also depend on the type of courses and level of study. We have provided an estimated tuition fees for some popular courses at the University of California Santa Cruz.
|
Course |
1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
|
MIM |
INR 27 L |
|
BE/BTech |
INR 35.95 L |
|
MS |
INR 37.5 L |
|
BSc |
INR 33.01 L |
The tuition fees given above is should be taken as a rough measure and not as a definitive measure. The tuition fees given above is subject to change.
Q: What is your review of University of California, Santa Cruz?
UCSC is surely a good option for international students mainly beacuse of a diverse range of excellent academic programs across its 11 professional schools and colleges. Notable programs include the film, television and digital media school which has produced countless successful alumni in the entertainment industry.
Here are the reasons why you should go for UCSC:
Academics: The University of California Santa Cruz offers more than variety of courses levels. The UCSC University offers undergraduate major and minor courses. Students can also pursue master’s or doctoral programs at the UCSC University.
Location of the university - The Universit of California Santa Cruz is in a location where arts & culture, technology industry and entertainment industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. The location gives UCSC students an additional mark to study at UCSC.
Ranking: It ranks at 192 in 2023 as per THE (Times Higher Education) University Ranking. If compared with the previous year’s ranking by QS World University Ranking, one can observe that the rankings have been Improving in the 2024 at 332 when compared to 2023 at 375.
Fees: : The cost of attending UCSC for Indian students can vary depending on several factors. Tuition fees for international students at UCSC are typically higher than for US citizens. However, it is important that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending UCSC.
Q: How long does it take to hear back from UC Santa Cruz?
The length of time hearing back from the UC Santa Cruz varies depending on the programme and the application volume received. Application is reverted by March from the date the application is received. The processing time may be extended if certain required documents still need to be included. Applicants can also check their status by contacting the University's admissions office for further information.
Q: What are the requirements for the MS in Computer Interaction course at the University of California Santa Cruz Campus?
Below are the requirements for the MS in Computer Interaction course at the University of California Santa Course Campus:
LOR: Some programs ask for a LOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters.
Statement of purpose ( an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for UC Santa Cruz. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants.
Transcripts and degrees: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with degree certificates. Similarly, applying for PhD or doctoral programme may require a master’s degree and transcripts from all graduate institutions of the applicant.
English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score of each English exam the university is excepting :
English is the language of instruction for the majority of the programs at the University of California Santa Cruz.
Applicants need not take any GRE exam for this course.
Students should have a background in design but no particular analytics or technology expertise (e.g., students graduating from design schools or professionals working as technology designers).
Students who have a background in social sciences, but minimal analytics or technical background.
Students who have a technical background in interactive system creation but no particular design or analytics expertise (e.g., students graduating from the current UCSC B.S. in Computer Science or Computer Engineering or professionals working as programmers or hardware engineers).
Q: What is the application fee at the University of California Santa Cruz Campus for international students?
International students must pay an application fee of USD 95 each for undergraduate and USD 155 for graduate programs. The application amount is non-refundable if the students don’t get selected. It’s important to note that application fees are subject to vary every term, and it’s suggested to double check the current fee with the specific programme you are applying to. However, the applicant should also be aware of the waivers and other resources that can help you to offset these costs.
Q: What are some useful tips for students starting their first semester at UC Santa Cruz?
Some of the tips for students starting their first-semester at the University ofCalifornia Santa Cruz are:
- Students who applied for University of California Santa Cruz must be humble and should interact with as many people as possible. Mainly beacause, the more people you talk to the better knowledge you get.
- Attend as many gathering and parties as much as you can.
- Applicants should avoid missing classess, as 70% of learning comes from students going to classes.
- Students can get invovlved with extracuricular activities, i.e joing university clubs, sports etc. This will also look good on a portfolio in the longer run.
Q: What is the application fee for MS in computer interaction course at the University of California Santa Cruz Campus?
International students must pay an application fee of USD 155 for MS program. The application amount is non-refundable if the students don’t get selected. It’s important to note that application fees are subject to vary every term, and it’s suggested to double-check the current fee with the specific programme you are applying to. However, the applicant should also be aware of the waivers and other resources that can help you to offset these costs.
Q: Is University of California Santa Cruz expensive?
The cost of attending UC Santa Cruz can vary depending on the main factors such as course, level of study ( Ex UG and PG) and accommodation status. However, international students considering the University of could be slightly higher than US students. The UG’s Academic Tution fee for international students for UG is around (INR 37.9 L). It’s (INR 36.3 L) for PG programs
The University offers a wide range of accommodations considering its student's safety and affordable living place. The following is the annual cost of living of international students at UC Santa Cruz:
Undergraduate student's cost of living:
entering Students | On-Campus | Off-Campus | Commuter |
|---|---|---|---|
Tuition and Fees ** | $15,288 | $15,288 | $15,288 |
Living Expenses * | $18,945 | $17,139 | $7,716 |
Books, Course Materials, Supplies, and Equipment * | $1,317 | $1,317 | $1,317 |
Transportation * | $900 | $1,425 | $2,277 |
Campus Health Insurance * ** | $3,141 | $3,141 | $3,141 |
Total California Resident Budget | $41,283 | $40,095 | $31,875 |
Non-Resident Tuition | $32,574 | $32,574 | $32,574 |
Total Non-California Resident Budget | $73,857 | $72,669 | $64,449 |
Graduate students cost of living:
On-Campus | Off-Campus | Commuter |
|---|---|---|
Tuition and Fees* | $14,832 | $14,832 |
Living Expenses** | $22,770 | $22,770 |
Books, Course Materials, Supplies, & Equipment | $1,653 | $1,653 |
Transportation | $3,075 | $3,075 |
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses | $2,475 | $2,475 |
Campus Health Insurance*** | $5,214 | $5,214 |
Total California Resident Budget | $50,019 | $50,019 |
Non-Resident Tuition | $15,102 | $15,102 |
Total Non-California Resident Budget | $65,121 | $65,121 |
Q: Does UC Santa Cruz accept international students?
In the fall of 2022, the university enrolled 19,000 or more students from diverse international backgrounds. These statistics underscore UC Santa Cruz and show how inclusive the university is in allowing various international students. Overall, the University of California Santa Cruz is one of the finest higher education institutions in the United States of America. The campus offers a diverse and culturally vibrant environment for international students irrespective of colour, nationality and creed.
Q: How do I stand out as an international applicant at UC Santa Cruz?
Admission to the University of California Santa Cruz is moderately competitive. The university wants well-rounded applicants excelling in extracurricular activities as well as in academics. Candidates with unique ideas and innovative interests will surely stand out. It is suggested that applicants should highlight their unique experiences, interests, and perspectives to help the examiner or the interviewer understand the applicant's potential. Students must talk about experiences and challenges that they've overcome, as that shows how the candidate takes on tasks during tough times. Coming to the essential part, students are suggested to have strong SOPs and LOR which can persuade the examiner to give them admission at the University of California Santa Cruz Campus.
Q: Is the GRE required for the University of California Santa Cruz?
The GRE is required for some of their graduate degree programs. The applicant must review the complete list of application requirements, including LORs, SOPs, academic transcripts and many more. However, the university does not ask for a general minimum GRE score from the applicants, but students are suggested to have a good score in order to be considered. Students applying for the following programs for 2024 admissions consideration are required to submit official GRE scores.No other programs accet or review GRE scores as part of the 2024 application:
Department | Program / Degree Objective (s) | Exam (s) Required |
|---|---|---|
Applied Mathematics | MA | GRE General Test AND GRE Mathematics Subject Exam |
Economics | PhD/MA | GRE General Test |
Mathematics | MA, MA/PhD, PhD | GRE General Test AND GRE Mathematics Subject Exam |
Technology Management | PhD | GRE General Test |
Q: which is better: UC Riverside compare or UC Santa Cruz?
UC Riverde and UC Santa Cruz offer unique campus cultures and academic programs. While they share a great reputation, there are subtle differences between the two universities. The below table compares the rankings, fees and acceptance rates of UC Riverde and UC Santa Cruz. Overall this information could be useful for students who are considering them.
Here is the comparison highlighting the differences between the Universities:
Name of The University | Ranking | Acceptance Rate | 1st Year Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| UC Riverde | 251-300 | 70.5% | UG: INR 34 L PG: INR 48 L - 52 L |
| UC Santa Cruz | 332 | 47% | UG: INR 36 L PG: INR 22 L - 62 L |
Q: Is UC Santa Cruz hard to get into?
The University of California Santa Cruz has an acceptance rate of 47%. That means only 47 applicants are selected out of 100. However, it is important to note that the acceptance rate can vary depending on the specific programme or major you are applying for. The UC Santa Cruz iis a famous and highly-ranked public university in California.
UCSC
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 months ago
Usually, the University of California Santa Cruz acceptance rate is calculated to be around 61%. For the Fall 2023 admissions, UC Santa Cruz received over 68,000 applications. Out of these, about 42,000 candidates enrolled in the institute for their higher education. Hence, it can be concluded that
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
University of California Santa Cruz is a moderately competitive university to get into, as its acceptance rate stands at 61%. This figure tells us that almost 61 out of every 100 applicants manage to get enrolled in the university, which is more than half of all the applicants. Therefore, once an ap
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
University of California Santa Cruz is a moderately competitive university to get into. However, candidates must not show any laxity and excel academically, along with meeting all the UC Santa Cruz admission requirements for international students in order to secure an enrollment. Additionally, fulf
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
In order to secure an enrollment, overseas applicants must fulfill the University of California Santa Cruz admission requirements listed below:
1) Undergraduate Requirements:
- High school or secondary school certificate;
- Proof of English language proficiency; and
- Other course-specific requirements.
Note:
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
University of California - Santa Cruz campus is one of the best universities in USA and students across the world desire to study here. Listed below are some helpful tips for students starting their first semester at UC Santa Cruz:
- Build a practical routine for studies;
- Build a healthy relationship wi
Contributor-Level 10
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UCSCLocation
| University City | Santa Cruz, California, USA |
UCSCContact Information
UC SANTA CRUZ,
1156 HIGH STREET,
SANTA CRUZ, CA 95064
Santa Cruz ( California)
What is the acceptance rate for international students at UC Santa Cruz?