This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on April 25th, 2023.
University of California Santa Barbara Admission Requirements Guide
Whether you’re just starting to consider University of California Santa Barbara as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the University of California Santa Barbara undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.
University of California Santa Barbara Acceptance Rate
The University of California Santa Barbara admission rate was 36.70% for the most recent class. While it can still be challenging to stand out among the pool of applicants, students who put in the effort to craft a strong application and demonstrate their passion and potential have a decent chance of being admitted to these schools. Ultimately, you should strive to find the right fit for your goals and interests, regardless of acceptance rates. This admission requirement rundown should help improve your chances of being accepted into University of California Santa Barbara.
University of California Santa Barbara GPA Requirements
Every high school has its own method of constructing students’ grade point averages (GPA). Some secondary schools use a weighted GPA system, where they take into account the rigor of honors courses and weigh them more heavily, and others use an unweighted GPA system, in which letter grades all carry the same weight regardless of the course’s difficulty.
To level the playing field, schools often compare applicants through their unweighted GPA and consider the number of honors and advanced courses separately. This is how University of California Santa Barbara typically conducts its college application review process.
University of California Santa Barbara Average GPA
When looking at undergraduate students who were most recently admitted, the University of California Santa Barbara average GPA is 4. Although there are no GPA requirements for admission, it is strongly recommended that prospective students aim for at least a 4 to give themselves an adequate chance of being accepted into University of California Santa Barbara.
University of California Santa Barbara SAT Score Requirements
The SAT is a standardized test that measures college readiness and educational foundation. The SAT has been used for nearly 100 years to test prospective students in mathematics, reading, writing, and language. Here are the SAT metrics to take into account when applying to University of California Santa Barbara.
University of California Santa Barbara Average SAT Scores
When looking at the undergraduate students who were in the most recently admitted class, the average University of California Santa Barbara SAT Score was 1369.
Here is the range of University of California Santa Barbara SAT scores segmented by the three sections of the test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.
SAT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to University of California Santa Barbara: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| Critical Reading | 620 | 665 | 710 |
| Math | 610 | 680 | 750 |
| Writing | 510 | 570 | 630 |
University of California Santa Barbara ACT Score Requirements
The ACT was founded in 1969 and serves as another college readiness measurement tool. The four subject areas are: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here are the details regarding University of California Santa Barbara’s ACT Requirements.
University of California Santa Barbara Average ACT Scores
When examining the most recently accepted undergraduate class, the median ACT Score for University of California Santa Barbara is 31.
Here is an updated range of University of California Santa Barbara ACT scores segmented by the three sections of the exam: English, Math, and Writing.
ACT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to University of California Santa Barbara: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| English | 26 | 30 | 34 |
| Math | 26 | 29 | 31 |
| Writing | |||
University of California Santa Barbara Application Requirements
University of California Santa Barbara is a great undergraduate school to attend. University of California Santa Barbara’s admission office is able to extend offers to many students while still being selective. To stand out in the admissions process, it is critical to abide by the school’s application requirements.
Does University of California Santa Barbara Use the Common App?
University of California Santa Barbara does not utilize the Common App for their admissions process. You can find information about Harvard’s application portal by visiting the admissions page on the university’s website.
Does University of California Santa Barbara Require Letters of Recommendation?
University of California Santa Barbara does not require a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Even though it’s not required, you are allowed to submit a teacher recommendation letter as supplemental material in your application. It is highly recommended that you do so, especially if you have a strong relationship with a teacher who is willing to attest to your academic and interpersonal skills.
University of California Santa Barbara Application Checklist
See our application checklist for University of California Santa Barbara below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.
Required Application Materials:
- Completed Application on University of California Santa Barbara's Website
- Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- Personal Statement (College Essay)
- University of California Santa Barbara Application Fee or Fee Waiver
- Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)
Optional Application Materials:
- Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)
Does University of California Santa Barbara Accept AP Credit?
University of California Santa Barbara accepts Advanced Placement (AP) credits, but not all scores will be accepted for college credits. Your AP score typically must be at least a “5” to be considered for college credit. Depending on the subject area, the scores may count towards as many as 12 course credits. For some subjects, University of California Santa Barbara will not convert the scores to any college credit. This is something to keep in mind when enrolling for AP courses during high school. It’s also important to note that colleges change their AP credit policies on a near annual basis.
University of California Santa Barbara Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of California Santa Barbara Public or Private?
University of California Santa Barbara is a public university. This institution primarily receives funding from CA state taxes and student tuition. Public colleges also tend to designate substantially different tuition rates for in-state students as compared to out-of-state students.
How Many Students Does University of California Santa Barbara Have?
University of California Santa Barbara has a large student body made up of 23166 undergraduate degree-seeking students, according to our latest data. With a massive campus population, there are plenty of opportunities to try new things and meet new people.
How do I apply to University of California Santa Barbara?
Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at University of California Santa Barbara’s Website.
Where is University of California Santa Barbara?
University of California Santa Barbara is located in Santa Barbara, CA. To visualize where University of California Santa Barbara’s campus is based in relation to Santa Barbara’s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.
University of California Santa Barbara Campus Map
Final Thoughts on Applying to University of California Santa Barbara
Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for University of California Santa Barbara. When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!
Sydney Janssen
As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.