Begin Your Journey with Us!
A global research university with an uncommon emphasis on undergraduate research and education, UC Santa Cruz is part of the world’s most celebrated system of public higher education, and stands among the most renowned institutions of higher learning. Our campus leads at the intersection of innovation and social justice, providing a welcoming community for all.
Admissions Requirements
Apply to UC Santa Cruz as a first-year student if you are currently in high school or secondary school, or if you’ve graduated high school, but haven’t enrolled in a regular session (fall, winter, spring) at a college or university.
Apply to UC Santa Cruz as a transfer student if you are enrolled in a regular session (fall, winter or spring) at a college or university after high school graduation. The exception is if you’re only taking a couple of classes during the summer after graduation.
If you attend a school in a country where English is not the native language or whose language of instruction in high school (secondary school) is not English, then you must adequately demonstrate English competency as a part of the application process.
Why UCSC?
The closest UC campus to Silicon Valley, UC Santa Cruz offers you an inspiring education with access to the best professors and professionals in the area. In your classes and clubs, you will also make connections to students who are the future leaders of industry and innovation in California and the U.S. 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!
Academics
As a highly-ranked research university and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, UC Santa Cruz will give you access to top professors, students, programs, facilities, and equipment. You will learn from professors who are leaders in their fields, alongside other high-achieving students who are passionate about their subjects.
Cost & Scholarship Opportunities
You will 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. To help with tuition expenses, UC Santa Cruz offers the Undergraduate Dean's Award, which ranges from $12,000 to $100,000, split over four years for first-year students. For transfer students, the award ranges from $6,000 to $42,000 over two years. This award is intended to offset non-resident tuition and will be discontinued if you become a California resident.
International Student Timeline
What can you expect as an international applicant to UC Santa Cruz? Let us help you plan and prepare! Our timeline includes important dates and deadlines for you and your family to keep in mind, plus information on early summer start programs, orientation, and more. Welcome to UC Santa Cruz!
More information
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!
Join 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.
International Student Services and Programming (ISSP) is your resource for visa and immigration advising to F-1 and J-1 international students. ISSP also provides workshops, information, and referrals to international students regarding cultural, personal, and other concerns.
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.
Students are well supported on their educational journey. Using our many resources, you can get help with your classes and your homework, advice for choosing a major and a career path, medical and dental care, and personal advice and support.
International Student Services and Programming provides orientation programs, events, and activities made just for international students to help you make friends and find community, and to support your cultural adjustment.
Important Message about Agents
UC Santa Cruz does not partner with agents to represent the University or to administer any part of the undergraduate admission application process. The engagement of agents or private organizations for the purpose of recruiting or enrolling international students is not endorsed by UC Santa Cruz. Agents who may be retained by students to help with the application process are not recognized as representatives of the University and do not have a contractual agreement or partnership to represent UC Santa Cruz.
All applicants are expected to complete their own application materials. The use of agent services is not aligned with UC’s Statement on Integrity -- expectations explained as a part of applying for admission to the University. For the complete Statement, go to our Statement of Application Integrity.
Next Steps
