Welcome!

The Office of International Students & Scholars is thrilled that you are considering UCSB to achieve your educational goals. 

OISS provides services and advising to international students and scholars, as well as the departments that support them. Please take a look at our digital brochure below to learn about international Gauchos at UCSB, OISS services, and to meet the team! Click on the "Download Our Guide!" button to the right to view and download the guide.

Below you will find some basic information on the admissions process, as well as some financial factors to consider. Detailed questions regarding the UCSB admissions process should be directed to the Office of Admissions.

How do I apply for admission to UCSB?

OISS is here to help you once you have been admitted to UCSB. OISS does not accept or process applications for admission. Here are links to help you apply:

  1. Freshmen (first year students) and transfer students (students from another U.S. college or university) who want an undergraduate degree (such as a B.A. or B.S.) apply through the undergraduate Admissions Office.
  2. Students who want to apply for a graduate degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) apply directly to the UCSB department in which they wish to study. A list of graduate programs and links to their contact email addresses, requirements and application dates are available on the Graduate Division website
  3. Students from universities that already have exchange agreements with the University of California’s Education Abroad Program (EAP) should apply for the EAP program through their home university. Check the EAP website for a list of universities that have EAP exchange agreements.
  4. Freshmen (first year students), transfer students (students from another U.S. college or university) and visiting students who wish to enroll in Summer Sessions, including the Freshman Summer Start Program (FFSP), apply directly through UCSB's Summer Sessions. Make sure to follow the instructions for international students provided by Summer Sessions in order to request your I-20 document. 
  5. Helpful Hint! When submitting your application to the UC System, you will want to make sure you indicate you will be coming on an F-1 or J-1 visa if you wish to receive an I-20 or DS-2019 from our office.  You cannot study at UCSB on a B-1 or B-2 visa.

What is my estimated cost of attendance?

Estimated Annual Cost

The adjusted current University estimate of the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses for the academic year, varies based on degree program.

Work-study opportunities for international students are limited. Most grants or scholarships are limited to U.S. students, and some visas include restrictions on the type of work you can do in the U.S.

Are there any financial aid and scholarship opportunities available to international students?

Yes, although the opportunities are limited. More information is available on our Financial Aid and Scholarships page.