I’ve heard conflicting things. I am also applying to UNC, Duke, and UVA so I was wondering how UCSB measures up compared to them. Is it considered hard to get into?
Academically UCSB is an excellent school. Although they have a “party school” reputation which can be warranted at times, you will get a great education and find like-minded serious but friendly students at the campus. If you are truly interested, I suggest you visit and form your own opinion.
Some statistical data for comparison with the other schools on your list. Are you a California resident?
UCSB 2018 Freshman profile:
Admit rate — Overall 32.3%
Admits: 29,782
Applicants: 92,305
GPA and test scores of middle 25%-75% students:::
UC Capped weighted High School GPA: 4.00 - 4.26
ACT Composite Score: 28 - 34
ACT English Language Arts: 26 - 31
SAT Evidence Based Reading & Writing: 630 - 720
SAT Mathematics: 640 - 780
SAT Essay: 15 - 18
This is super helpful! Thanks! I am not a california resident so I don’t know much about the school and how it is viewed by others/ how it would impact my future employment, etc
UCSB does not offer financial aid for OOS students so make sure $65K/year in costs will be ok with your family and college budget.
UCSB will have stats that are comparable or better than UNC and UVA (e.g. GPA, top 10%). At least in the U.S., I don’t think it will be as broadly known (although the UC will give everyone context), and it doesn’t hold the same recognition as Berkeley and UCLA, whereas UNC and UVA are thought of more as flagships. OOS admission to UNC and UVA is very competitive, but Duke is still at another level now.
UCSB is the perfect school for you! Right on the beach, you’ll live in a community of college students. Sure it costs a bundle and lacks the personal attention and smaller classes of some other places you mentioned. But don’t let that bother you. It’s on the beach!! As a CA resident and taxpayer we love the OOS kids who come and help support the UC system with their OOS fees. Make it your number one choice!
@mikemac none of the places I mentioned are small. Just wanted some extra info…
@IzzoOne Thanks so much!