University of California, Santa Barbara Vs University of Wisconsin-Madison: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of California, Santa Barbara Vs University of Wisconsin-Madison based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of California, Santa Barbara Vs University of Wisconsin-Madison on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of California, Santa Barbara Vs University of Wisconsin-Madison based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of California, Santa Barbara Vs University of Wisconsin-Madison on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.

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University of California, Santa Barbara
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW MadisonStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
3.9/5
3.3 Internships
3.1 Part time work
4.4 Post study jobs
4.4 Quality of faculty
4.4 Student Life
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4/5
3.6 Internships
4 Part time work
3.6 Post study jobs
4.2 Quality of faculty
4 Student Life
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW MadisonCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
UC Santa Barbara V/s UW Madison MS
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW Madison B.Sc.
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW Madison B.A.
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW Madison M.A.
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW Madison B.E. / B.Tech
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Other courses
- BBA (2 courses)
- B.Pharma (1 course)
- BFA (1 course)
- MFA (1 course)
- Others UG (1 course)
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- MBA/PGDM (2 courses)
- BBA (16 courses)
- B.Pharma (2 courses)
- BFA (2 courses)
- MFA (4 courses)
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UC Santa Barbara V/s UW MadisonCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1891
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
1055 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1848
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
936 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
UC Santa Barbara V/s UW MadisonCampus Comparison
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Country Facts
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Get a detailed view about the country. Add a college!
Student’s views on campus
Views on UC Santa Barbara campus
M
Monica 
B.A. in Biology - Batch of 2027
4
Provides a good sense of belonging here.
Tips: I was apprehensive before I got here but because of how supportive the environment was and because of the resources employed for international students, it became a lot easier to find my place. The faculty is well-versed in their courses and they push you to explore your potential and think in a critical manner which has taught me many valuable lessons and experiences. In case you need any assistance, there are student communities that are quick to help. Overall, I am quite satisfied with my experiences.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3300
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 79050
A
Anonymous
BS in Microbiology - Batch of 2024
4
I have had lot of experiences so far both good and bad.
Tips: One of the best things about this university is the location and the networking opportunities available here. The classes are inclusive and the campus environment in general is very friendly. The faculty and staff are very friendly and approachable. However, registration and currency conversion can be challenging. Overall, it's an enjoyable experience.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3500
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 84450
A
Anonymous
MA in Economics - Batch of 2025
3.9
University of California has provided a great experience so far with amazing faculty.
Tips: For me, studying here at UCSB has been a major change in my life and an experience that has also transformed me. I had some culture shock when I came here and was initially a little nervous but I also noticed that the student services and peer mentors made a big difference in helping me settle in. Overall, it has been a good experience for me so far.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3250
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 81350
A
Anonymous
Master of Technology Management - Batch of 2026
3.9
Had a good time here with great faculty.
Tips: I have had a fulfilling experience at UCSB. I've learned a lot and grown a lot as a person. Before you start your classes, get an idea of where they are located and who your professors are. Ask your guidance counselors about them. They can give you a good idea of what to expect and how to prepare.
Likes (Quality of faculty): I've had a good experience at UCSB. The professors and faculty are very approachable and understanding when you have concerns or significant issues. I've seen Indian-origin professors and professors from other ethnicities as well. I've had mainly positive experiences with them as they are happy to help.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3675
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85225
A
Anonymous
BS/BA in Mathematics - Batch of 2024
3.9
Great place to learn and develop the right skills.
Tips: If you are looking to experiment and find your way in life and career, then UCSB would provide the right environment. Although the course loads are intense and classes are competitive, you will get to explore several internship and project opportunities that will develop your interest in the programs. Hence, keep an open mind and embrace every opportunity here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2875
Prepping time for classes27 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85225
A
Anonymous
BS in Ecology and Evolution - Batch of 2025
3.7
Very accepting campus and culture.
Tips: I have learned a lot from my time here in California. Studying here has made me realise that a lot of learning can take place outside classrooms as well. This prompted me to participate in sports and extracurriculars such as cultural events. All in all, I have had a pleasant and positive experience.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2825
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 78275
A
Anonymous
BS/BA in Physics - Batch of 2026
3.9
Very innovative and creative space to grow.
Tips: One of the first things to know about studying at UCSB is that the workloads and the courses can be very intense and because of the concept of relative grading followed in classes, it is extremely competitive as well. There are also a number of resources for students to help them out such as peer tutoring, mentoring, and office hours. Other than academics, there are a number of social mixers and clubs for students to socialize.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3200
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 76725
A
Anonymous
MS in Earth Science - Batch of 2025
3.9
Very accommodating and welcoming campus.
Tips: I have experienced both good and stressful experiences here in college. The classes can be academically rigorous but there are plenty of activities outside the classroom as well. The campus of UCSB is breathtaking and the outdoors are very inviting hence activities like trekking, hiking and volleyball are popular among students to unwind after a long day. Finally, I would suggest that before you reach campus, figure out your accommodation preference and sign up for a meal plan if you plan on staying within campus most of the time.
Likes (Safety): I have personally found the campus to be super safe and comfortable for me as there is more than adequate security and the students are very united and helpful. It is more unsafe outside of campus especially concerning theft and robbery and more.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2925
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
BS in Psychological & Brain Sciences - Batch of 2023
4.2
Have had a good experience
Tips: My experience at UCSB has been very unique and has taught me a lot. There was a culture shift when I first arrived, but the transition was seamless because of the student services and my batchmates. I joined two cultural groups to feel more engaged in my community and extracurriculars. The sports facilities are truly exceptional as well.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3575
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 83675
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.9
University of California is a good place to make friends and building connections.
Tips: One of the first things that I have noticed here is the vast amount of diversity in the student body and faculty as well. You can expect to meet all sorts of people who will contribute to your growth and college life. Moreover, consider getting yourself a bike or carrying a digital map to track down the bus routes.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2450
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 95250
A
Anonymous
B.S. in Computing - Batch of 2025
3.9
Been a peaceful experience.
Tips: I have had a fairly comfortable time adjusting here as the students are quite friendly and accommodating. If you are planning to stay out of campus, then make sure it's within walking distance as transport can become tricky because of the limited on-campus parking. The courseload is challenging so attend office hours and ask your professors for help whenever needed.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3775
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 92925
A
Anonymous
MS in Chemistry - Batch of 2026
3.9
University of California has a diverse student body.
Tips: I was nervous before coming to this university, but that was soon replaced with absolute happiness in choosing this university in particular. I am very satisfied with everything here. The faculty has been very understanding and helpful to me so far, and the fees for my program are better than those offered by other universities in California.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3075
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 83675
A
Anonymous
MA in Anthropology - Batch of 2025
4.1
It is a great place to learn.
Tips: I've really enjoyed my time at this university. I've been able to pursue my interests and develop my strengths. The location is a big plus, too. There's lots of outdoor space to explore. Just remember to limit your consumption of outside food, since it's a lot more expensive in California than in other places. But overall, I'm really happy with my experience here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2875
Prepping time for classes27 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Alisha S 
MA in Classics - Batch of 2023
3.7
One of a kind college life with great and friendly faculty.
Tips: I underwent a lot of personality development and managed to discover my passion for writing and expression. This was also because of all the supportive and like-minded individuals I have met on campus which is what UCSB is pretty well known for as well. Overall, I am pretty satisfied and grateful for my experience.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 4425
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 82125
S
Simran 
MA in Global Studies - Batch of 2025
3.9
It has been a very valuable experience for me with great faculty to guide me throughout.
Tips: I have transitioned positively after coming here. The campus is beautiful and has a lot of scenic views. The academic environment is quite rigorous and there is a lot of emphasis on research. Registration is much simpler than other colleges and you are encouraged to seek help if needed. UCSB has the most electric and energetic environment you can think of. The campus is perpetually in a state of excitement and there is always an event, a game or a club activity to do where people are very welcoming. I've personally enjoyed the adventure clubs as well as Scuba.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 4575
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Views on UW Madison campus
A
Anonymous
Computer Science B.S - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
3.1
A positive start to my Computer Science journey at UW-Madison.
Tips: The transition for me was quite smooth and did not face any problems moving into dorms setting up bank accounts or getting a SIM card. I didn't apply for any scholarship. I'm pretty happy with how UW-Madison has been raising up the ranks in Computer Science in the US. I like this course and is a great experience to pursue it at UW-Madison.
Likes (Safety): There's a programme Safewalker that UW-Madison offers its students. This service offers an important safety resource where you could call them and they accompany you on foot from your location to your destination. This service is only available at night from about 7-8 pm to 1-2 am.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): The post-study job opportunities at the University of Wisconsin-Madison may not stand out significantly from other leading universities in the US, but the computer science programme still offers a solid pathway for students to secure employment after graduation.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3000
Prepping time for classes22 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Anonymous
M.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering (Research) - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
4.2
Great university with unique events and great staff.
Tips: There was a cultural shift for sure. It is handy to know seniors or friends who are already here to help settle in. I did not avail of any scholarships. The faculty is very approachable and always ready to discuss any topic with you and clear your doubts. What I found unique was the use of research papers that involve state-of-the-art technologies rather than traditional old textbooks. The faculty is very diverse, as are the students. I am extremely satisfied with my college as it is in the top five in the country for my course of ECE.
Dislikes (Part time work): Part-time jobs are available on campus, but most require prior experience. I applied for jobs like cashier or cafe team member and got rejected. If you are willing to be a culinary assistant or dishwasher, it can be easier to get a job. Part-time work is according to your class schedule, and the pay varies from 15 to 20 dollars an hour.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 900
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80000
R
Rishabh Jain 
Computer Science B.S - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
3.9
College is about what you take out of it.
Tips: I've become more independent and mature since coming to this university. I didn't get any scholarships, and there are very few available for international students. The weather is harsh, especially in the winter months, which can be depressing. I'm satisfied with the course, but it hasn't been extraordinary.
Likes (Part time work): I was able to find a part-time job at the University of Wisconsin-Madison before I even got there. The university has a job portal that lists all the available on-campus jobs. The portal is well-maintained and regularly updated with new job postings. The pay is quite good.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): The campus job fair and advisors are not very useful in finding jobs and internships. There are hundreds of companies at the job fair, but very few actually hire from the fair. The fairs are only good as an introduction to potential employers.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1350
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 83950
A
Anonymous
Materials Science and Engineering, M.S. - Batch of 2023
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
4.5
The most student friendly campus
Tips: Try to understand how to manage your finances after coming here. Try to use available benefits from offers and other things to save some money. Also, make as many friends as you can after coming here because they are going to be your family away from home. That's all I can think of.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Great helpful faculty in terms of guiding about academics, future goals, placements, research etc. They have office hours where you can personally talk to them about the problems you are facing and they will try their best to solve them or at least guide you in that direction.
Dislikes (Indian Food): I prefer to cook myself. There are good restaurants around but very few Indian restaurants. And the Indian restaurants aren't exactly catering to 'actual Indian' needs of cuisines. Americanised version a little. Otherwise, the options of different cuisines are ample.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3275
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 25400
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
4.1
Indian population is less. Good network.
Tips: A lot of loneliness here, be mentally prepared. I saw a major cultural shift. Overall very much satisfied with my university, course and country. It is very different from India, you will definitely miss everything about India but everything has its pros & cons.
Likes (Internships): The college has a good reputation, you will find an alumni in almost every other company. Alumni connect is not that great here but you can always make connections on LinkedIn from people from your college. There are a few career fairs but they do not really sponsor. But it is a good opportunity to network.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Lack of Indians on campus due to which lack of Indian spices, food and stores. You will have to rely on Walmart or target or some other grocery place. A few Indian restaurants would be Amber, Maharani but the food is not very cheap.
I cook myself.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes7 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
MS Computer Sciences (Professional) - Batch of 2027
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
4.2
The university is fun, friendly and has a lot of activities on campus.
Tips: I have transitioned well to this university and city. I did not expect a huge cultural shift. There is an excellent recreational activities and amazing infrastructure. The thing I enjoy the most about my college is the campus. I go to different restaurants, walk near the lake to classes, and use the infrastructure for recreational activities. My course is great and relevant, and I recommend it to any aspiring student. I am very satisfied with the university.
Dislikes (Indian Food): I am Indian and I like Indian food. However, the Indian food at the university is not good. The food is bland and lacks flavour. Also, the portions are small. Anywhere you can get good Indian food is really expensive, especially for students.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2300
Prepping time for classes42 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 95000
A
Anonymous
Computer Science B.S - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Wisconsin-Madison
4.3
UW Madison is great with lots of facilities.
Tips: UW Madison is a good school for a CS degree and is a top 15 school. However, it's costly, so make sure your finances are in order. The job market for tech is bad right now, so getting internships and jobs is difficult for students from any school. However, the alumni network at UW Madison is excellent, and the faculty is very supportive.
Likes (Public transportation): The University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a free bus that goes around campus and connects to public transportation. There is no issue with transportation for students, and the nearest airport is a three-hour bus ride away.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There aren't a lot of Indian food options near the college, and the ones that are there are expensive. The campus is in a midwestern college town, but there aren't many great Indian restaurants in the area. There is a State Street with a variety of fast food and casual dining options, including Taco Bell, Cane's, pizza places, Asian food, and Mediterranean food.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 500
Prepping time for classes9 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85300
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