University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of California, Santa Barbara: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of California, Santa Barbara based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of California, Santa Barbara on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of California, Santa Barbara based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of California, Santa Barbara on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa BarbaraStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4.4/5
4.2 Internships
4.7 Part time work
4.3 Post study jobs
5 Quality of faculty
4.8 Student Life
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3.9/5
3.3 Internships
3.2 Part time work
4.4 Post study jobs
4.4 Quality of faculty
4.4 Student Life
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa BarbaraCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa Barbara MS
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa Barbara B.E. / B.Tech
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa Barbara M.A.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa Barbara B.Sc.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa Barbara BBA
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Other courses
- MBA/PGDM (2 courses)
- MEng (11 courses)
- B.A. (36 courses)
- MFA (9 courses)
- M.Arch (11 courses)
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- B.A. (40 courses)
- MFA (1 course)
- Others PG (3 courses)
- BFA (1 course)
- Others UG (1 course)
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa BarbaraCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1867
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
6370 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1891
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
1055 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UC Santa BarbaraCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
University of Illinois Bike Tour
The Journey Is Yours | The Power Of I
The Campus Tour | Urbana-Champaign
Front View
Building
Outside view
Campus
View
Winter View
Convocation
Building
Outside view
Campus
View
Winter View
Convocation
Soaring Over UCSB
A Day in the Life of UC Santa Barbara
Why UCSB? Freshman Orientation
UCSB - Santa Catalina Dorm Room Tour (double room)
Commencement | Prepared for the Future
University of California
University of California, Santa Barbara picture
University of California, Santa Barbara picture
University of California, Santa Barbara picture
Aerial View
Aerial View
USCB Santa Cruz hall
University of California, Santa Barbara picture
Library
Library
University of California, Santa Barbara picture
Classroom
Classroom
Dorm
Dorm
Entrance gate
Residence hallGet a detailed campus view, add a college
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 University of Illinois Urbana Champaign campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership - Batch of 2026
4.3
A big university in a small town with modern facilities.
Tips: The university is truly awesome, you don't have to worry about that. If you are looking for a calm but fun town to spend your 5 years of the Ph.D, then you are looking at the right place. It's very fresh in here. If you are expecting US city life, then you probably need to go to Chicago, which is around 3 hours away from here. There are many on-campus jobs available and even plenty of off-campus jobs as well. If you are a graduate student, it's even better because you can work with professors on their research projects. The hourly pay is also not bad as the expenses in this town are very low. Overall, I am very satisfied with the environment, people, university culture, eating out options, etc.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): In general, there are fewer immigration options in the US. Provided the current scenario, the opportunities are getting even fewer. If I get a chance to permanently immigrate to the US, I would definitely not think twice about it. But the chances are better if you are from a STEM field or Academia.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1400
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 70000

Keval Morabia 
Professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) - Batch of 2020
4.5
One of the best CS grad schools where I was able to make net positive money during my Masters!
Tips: Do not let cold weather be a reason for not joining UIUC, you get used to it. Apart from the thesis, there is no difference between MS and MS programme and both are considered the same for job applications but the thesis programme helps you improve your profile by getting to work with a professor on a research project. Computer Science programme has decent TA/RA opportunities and if you get one, you get 100% fee waiver and $2500 monthly stipend which is well above the monthly expenses. Post covid, intake to the professional MS programme has significantly increased from ~60 to ~300 resulting in a lot more competition to get a TA/RA.
Likes (Quality of faculty): UIUC has some of the best faculty in Computer Science, many times professors teach content that has been published in books by themselves. UIUC has many diverse professors, a very wide choice of course selection and a lot of flexibility in choosing courses.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Since Urban-Champaign is a college town, there are not that many Indian restaurants and for people who eat Jain food, there are hardly any food options outside. But there are many events in the department buildings where you can occasionally get free Pizzas.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD

Akash Singh 
Master of Science in Systems and Entrepreneurial Engineering - Batch of 2022
5
Best campustown in USA which gives you most bang for your buck compared to anywhere in states
Tips: Very accommodating culture. It will be the best experience of your life. Teachers are very knowledgeable. MS programme can be tailored to your liking where you can take courses from any department without much restrictions. This happened to be the best experience of my life.
Likes (Safety): Campustown is organized in a manner where all the students converge to Green Street where we have everything needed creating an awesome environment to meet new people and have fun. Cricket lovers can join Cricket Club of Illinois for a rewarding cricket experience and tons of tournaments in summer.
Dislikes (Public transportation): Faculty is very approachable and compassionate. After first semester most Masters student can find a RA or TA position. Try to meet with the faculty and show what drives you to do research and teaching and you will get a way around. The faculty is well-educated and mostly from universities ranked above UIUC.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 900
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 62650
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2024
4.1
Most people and faculty are friendly.
Tips: Champaign is the best town to live in for those coming to the US for the first time. Pros such as low rent, a friendly campus, etc. can be of help. I availed a Research Assistantship which resulted in a tuition fee waiver. Very satisfied with my courses and the University.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes21 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2023
3.9
My Review on doing a Masters in UIUC
Tips: Since the university is in Illinois, the weather during the winters is brutal, which most Indians will find difficult to adapt to. Hence I advise you to buy proper winter clothes when winter approaches. The grocery stores on or near campus are also expensive, so you need to learn how to buy food in bulk without wasting anything. UIUC has a large diaspora of not only Indians but other nationalities as well, so socializing is necessary but not tedious. Despite this, feelings of loneliness can set in since everyone will be busy studying for their courses, which one should be prepared for.
Likes (Public transportation): The campus has a functional transportation service which is free for students of UIUC, with plenty of buses there to reach most parts of Champaign-Urban. Despite buses taking more time to reach the destination you wish to go to, the part that is already included in your tuition fees is convenient since one pays $60 as public transportation fees.
Dislikes (Value for money): Since I did my Masters in Aerospace Engineering, finding internships for myself was tedious due to ITAR. And unlike Indian institutes, we have to find internships by ourselves because most companies that come to the career fair look for US citizens only, though I would advise going to the career fair anyway to network.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Ayush Sharma 
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
4.3
You will be required to work hard.
Tips: UIUC is a work hard-play hard type of university. If you're into that, then definitely do apply! Also keep in mind that UIUC does not give out many scholarships to international students.
The research opportunities are great here, along with more than 1000+ clubs and organizations.
Likes (Public transportation): The bus transportation system is one of the best in the country. The bus system is free for all students, and the bus network extends beyond the campus, to the surrounding Champaign-Urbana area. There are a number of buses, which means there's never a shortage or long waiting time on them. Buses are also more so generally they are quite on time.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There aren't many authentic versions of Indian dishes in the dining halls. Although, you could get Indian food in restaurants outside the campus. Some days, in particular dining halls such as ISR, Indian food is provided in the form of samosas or paneer, however I wouldn't rely on the authenticity.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 6516
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 150000
R
Rishabh Asthana 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2017
4.2
Life changing and worthwhile experience.
Tips: Before you join this university it is important to prepare beforehand regarding the course curriculum and academic requirements. If possible get a tour of the campus before you permanently move in and join whatever informative sessions are held. Part- time opportunities are not so great.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 6700
Prepping time for classes39 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 113750
Views on UC Santa Barbara campus
M
Monica 
B.A. in Biology - Batch of 2027
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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. The classes are very much friendly and the campus environment in general is very friendly. The faculty and staff are very friendly and approachable. Registration and currency conversion can be tough.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3500
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 84450
A
Anonymous
Master of Technology Management - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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 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. 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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Alisha S 
MA in Classics - Batch of 2023
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
Offered by University of California, Santa Barbara
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
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