I intend to major in physics with a potential double major in math. I am currently committed to UCSB and recently got off the waitlist for Berkeley. With my current unofficial financial aid, UCSB costs $4,200 a year and Cal costs $9,000 a year. A price differential of $20,000 over the course of 4 years factors in greatly for me. As well, I am concerned about being a “little fish in a big pond” at Berkeley while I feel I may be afforded more opportunities (undergraduate research or otherwise) at UCSB. The perks of regents at UCSB such as priority housing and class registration, while nice, aren’t major factors in my decision either way, but I would like to know if they should be. As well, I would enroll in the honors college at UCSB but I am unable to say right now if I would do the same at Berkeley. I have visited the UCSB campus twice now and enjoyed it. The vibe was laid back and I think I would be able to enjoy myself there. I haven’t visited Berkeley yet but I feel like the social situation is similar to that of SB, if not better. Any input is welcome, thanks!
you need to visit UCB, i think your decision will become clear once you do.
gongrats and good luck.