Study with Us on the Pacific Coast
Experience life in the Golden State! We are blessed to be living in an area of incomparable natural beauty and technical and cultural influence, all imbued with that California spirit of openness and free exchange of ideas. California is a powerful force in the world, with the fifth largest economy on the planet and centers of innovation and creativity such as Hollywood and Silicon Valley. Join us!
Why UCSC?
Does the thought of making the world a better place inspire you? Do you want to work on projects involving social justice, environmental stewardship, and high-impact research? Then UC Santa Cruz could be the university for you! In an atmosphere of supportive community enhanced by our residential college system, Banana Slugs are changing the world in exciting ways.
The Santa Cruz Area
Santa Cruz is one of the most sought-after areas in the U.S., due to its warm, Mediterranean climate and convenient location near Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. Ride a mountain bike to your classes (even in December or January), then go surfing on the weekend. Discuss genetics in the afternoon, and then in the evening go shopping with your friends. It’s all in Santa Cruz!
What is different for you?
You must meet the same admission requirements as a California-resident student but with a slightly higher GPA. You will also need to pay nonresident tuition in addition to educational and registration fees. Residency for fee purposes is determined based on documentation that you provide us in your Statement of Legal Residence.
Transferring from out-of-state?
As a transfer student, you will need to follow a course pattern, with specific GPA requirements. You may also need to follow course pattern and GPA guidelines for your specific major. In addition, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.80 in all UC-transferable college coursework, although higher GPAs are more competitive. More information on transfer requirements.
More information
The UC Santa Cruz campus is a safe and supportive environment, with on-campus police and fire personnel, a comprehensive Student Health Center, and a variety of services to help you thrive while living here.
We are near San Jose International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, and Oakland International Airport. The best way to get to the airport is using a ride-share program or one of the local shuttle services.
Our campus is built around our residential college system, offering you a supportive place to live as well as numerous options for housing and dining. Want a view of the ocean? A forest? A meadow? See what we have to offer!
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