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University of California, Santa Barbara
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University of California, Santa Barbara Rankings 2026

Map Pin IconSanta Barbara, California, USA
Star Icon3.9 /5
Comment Icon2.2k Student Q&A
Shiksha popularity ranking
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#122 in World

#32 in USA

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  • Institute Icon1055 acre campus
  • Estd. 1891
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UC Santa Barbara
University of California, Santa Barbara Ranking

#32

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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World rank by different ranking providers

Shiksha

#122

THE Ranking

#67

ARWU Ranking

#70

US News Ranking

#91

QS Ranking

#179
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Commonly asked questions
On University Evaluation
Q:   What is the ranking of University of California Santa Barbara globally?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is among the top universities in USA for continuing higher education. When it comes to ranking, UC Santa Barbara is one of the top-ranked universities in the world. According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of California Santa Barbara has an overall ranking of #29 in USA. Check the table listed below for UC Santa Barbara ranking by top ranking publisher all over the world:

Ranking Publishers

Rank

Shiksha Popularity Rankings

#29 in USA and #43 in MS in USA

US News & World Report 2025

#39

Times Higher Education 2025

#67

QS World University Rankings 2025

#178

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking 2024)

#64

Q:   What is the ranking of University of California Santa Barbara in comparison to the UIUC?
A: 

According to the Times Higher Education, the University of California Santa Barbara is ranks at #64 and UIUC ranks between #48 under the category of “World University Rankings 2025”. The comparative rankings of University of California Santa Barbara and UIUC are given as follows:

Year

University of California Santa Barbara

UIUC

2023

64

48

2024

69

42

2025

67

46

Q:   What is the ranking of University of California Santa Barbara in comparison to University of California Riverside?
A: 

According to the QS, the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #178 and University of California Riverside ranks at #497 under the category of “QS World University Rankings 2025”. The comparative rankings of University of California Santa Barbara and University of California Riverside are given as follows:

Year

University of California Santa Barbara

University of California Riverside

2023

149

453

2024

163

404

2025

178

497

UC Santa Barbara
University of California, Santa Barbara Course Ranking

Showing 3 Courses
#45
Shiksha popularity ranking

MS

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Shiksha

#45

ARWU

#13

US News

#14

QS

#25

THE

#47
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Specializations in MS Program

Physics

Shiksha

#8

ARWU

#13

QS

#25
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Chemical Engineering

Shiksha

#15

US News

#14
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#41
Shiksha popularity ranking

M.Arch

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Shiksha

#41

QS

#201
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#44
Shiksha popularity ranking

M.A.

Accordion Icon V3

Shiksha

#44

QS

#46

ARWU

#76

THE

#84
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Specializations in M.A. Program

Politics

Shiksha

#69

QS

#301
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Commonly asked questions
On Course Ranking
Q:   What is the ranking of University of California Santa Barbara by Shiksha Popularity Rankings?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is among the top universities for higher education in the United Kingdom. The university offers a variety of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its international students. The University of California Santa Barbara top programs are ranked by top ranking authorities. According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of California Santa Barbara top programs rankings are listed below:

Type of Programs

Shiksha Popularity Rankings

MS

44

Biology

41

Chemical Engineering

15

Physics

8

MFA

26

B.Tech

43

Computer Science Engineering

40

Mathematics

42

Electrical Engineering

30

Mechanical Engineering

38

Computer Science

19

Electrical Engineering

20

Electronics Engineering

19

Q:   What are the rankings of programs offered by University of California Santa Barbara by THE?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is renowned for offering the best academic programs for its international students. The university provides a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including both on-campus and online programs. Some of the top programs offered by University of California Santa Barbara that are ranked Times Higher Education (THE) are listed below:

Top Programs

THE Ranking

Arts and Humanities

#84

Computer Science

#62

Education

#99

Engineering

#47

Life Sciences

#101-125

Physical Sciences

#34

Psychology

#80

Social Sciences

#64

US News Icon

University of California Santa Barbara US News & World Report Rankings 2025

Ranked by202420252026
Global Universities
Info Icon
8991– / –
National University353940
Chemical Engineering PG1314– / –
Electrical Engineering PG2627– / –
Mechanical Engineering PG2724– / –

University of California Santa Barbara Vs Other Universities: US News & World Report Comparison

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University of California Santa Barbara US News & World Report 2025: Ranking Criteria

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Commonly asked questions
On UC Santa Barbara US News & World Report Ranking
Q:   Where does the University of California Santa Barbara rank globally?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is among the top universities for continuing higher education in USA. According to US News & World Report, the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #39 under the “Best National Universities 2025”. Also, UC Santa Barbara ranks at #13 in the “Top Public School” and #200 in “Best Value Schools”. Moreover, the University of California Santa Barbara more ranking by US News & World Report is listed below:

Particulars

Rank

Overall Score

79

Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs

#35

Economics

#43

Best Colleges for Veterans

#20

Top Performers on Social Mobility

#20

Q:   Does the University of California Santa Barbara rank better than the UC Los Angeles?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara and UC Los Angeles both are some of the best universities in USA. According to US News & World Report, the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #39 and the UC Los Angeles ranks at #15 under the category of “Best National Universities 2025”. Check the table listed below for UC Santa Barbara and UC Los Angeles ranking over the past years:

Year

University of California Santa Barbara

UC Los Angeles

2023

32

20

2024

35

NA

2025

39

15

QS Icon

University of California Santa Barbara QS Rankings 2025

Ranked by202420252026
World University
Info Icon
163178179
Biological Sciences148141– / –
Communication and Media Studies3646– / –
Engineering and Technology
Info Icon
132158– / –
Mathematics201151– / –
Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering143146– / –
Medicine451451– / –
Pharmacy and Pharmacology201301– / –
Physics and Astronomy2225– / –
Politics201301– / –
Sociology201201– / –

University of California Santa Barbara Vs Other Universities: QS Comparison

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University of California Santa Barbara QS 2025: Ranking Criteria

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Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On UC Santa Barbara QS Ranking
Q:   What is the University of California Santa Barbara QS ranking?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is among the top choices of international students in USA for continuing higher studies. The University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #178 under the category of “World University Rankings 2025”. Also, UC Santa Barbara ranks at #22 under the “QS WUR Ranking by Subject”. Moreover, the university also ranks at #396 in the “QS Sustainability Ranking”. Check the table listed below for UC Santa Barbara ranking over the past 3 years:

University Name

QS World University Ranking 2023

QS World University Ranking 2024

QS World University Ranking 2025

UC Santa Barbara

#149

#163

#178

Q:   Which university ranks better in the QS rankings - University of California Santa Barbara or UC Riverside?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara and UC Riverside are some of the most esteemed universities in USA. According to QS, the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #178 under the category of “World University Rankings 2025”. Whereas, University of California Riverside ranks at #497 under the “World University Rankings 2025”. Check the table listed below for QS rankings of both the universities over the past years:

University Name

QS World University Ranking 2023

QS World University Ranking 2024

QS World University Ranking 2025

UC Santa Barbara

#149

#163

#178

UC Riverside

#453

#404

#497

 

THE Icon

University of California Santa Barbara THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2025

Ranked by202320242025
University
Info Icon
646967
Arts and Humanities828384
Engineering
Info Icon
434647
Life Sciences73101101
PG Computer Science
Info Icon
606562
Psychology577480

University of California Santa Barbara Vs Other Universities: THE Comparison

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University of California Santa Barbara THE (Times Higher Education) 2025: Ranking Criteria

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Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On UC Santa Barbara THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking
Q:   What is the University of California Santa Barbara ranking in Times Higher Education rankings?
A: 

According to the Times Higher Education (THE), the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #67 under the category of “World University Rankings 2025”. Moreover, the UC Santa Barbara popular programs are also ranked by THE such as Arts and Humanities at #84, Computer Science #62, Engineering #47, Life Science #101-125, and more. Students can check the table listed below for the parameters that are evaluated by THE while ranking UC Santa Barbara:

Parameters

Score Achieved

Overall

72.7

Teaching

49.6

Research Environment

65.5

Research Quality

96.7

Industry

96.8

International Outlook

81.9

Q:   What are the criteria used by Times Higher Education (THE) for ranking the UC Santa Barbara in the world?
A: 

The University of California Santa Barbara is one of the most reputed universities in United States. UC Santa Barbara is highly appreciated by international students for offering the best academic programs. The university is one of the highest ranked universities in the world. According to THE, the University of California Santa Barbara ranks at #67 under the “World University Rankings 2025”. Furthermore, check the table listed below for the parameters that are evaluated by THE while ranking UC Santa Barbara:

Parameters

Score Achieved

Overall

72.7

Teaching

49.6

Research Environment

65.5

Research Quality

96.7

Industry

96.8

International Outlook

81.9

Shanghai Ranking Icon

UC Santa Barbara
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) Ranking 2025

Ranked by202320242025
Universities
Info Icon
636470
Law201201– / –
Mathematics101101– / –
Physics1513– / –
Political Sciences51101– / –
Sociology10176– / –

UC Santa Barbara
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.9/5
Verified Icon15 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 7% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Multi-dimensional
Fun loving
Friendly
Sporty
Internships3.3
Part time work3.1
Post study jobs4.4
Quality of faculty4.4
Student Life4.4
Value for money3.2
Public transportation4.5
Safety4.5
Indian Food4.3
Permanent Immigration3.1
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
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
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024Read more
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UC Santa Barbara

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Is it hard to get into UC Santa Barbara?

Answered 4 months ago

UCSB acceptance rate stands at 29.56% as of Fall 2024. This means that out of every 100 students who apply to the UC Santa Barbara admissions, the university is likely to offer the opportunity to enroll at the UCSB campus to only 29-30 students, making the admission criteria of the university rather

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R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

Which is harder to get into among University of California Santa Barbara and University of Illinois Urbana Champaign?

Answered 6 months ago

Both UCSB & UIUC are among the highly ranked institutions in the United States. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the universities are selective at picking students for admissions to its courses. The University of California Santa Barbara acceptance rate stands at around 29% while that of Universit

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A

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

How safe is UC Santa Barbara?

Answered 6 months ago

The UC Santa Barbara campus is considered "pretty safe", going by reviews posted by students on Shiksha Study Abroad.

The campus achieves 4.4 stars out of a possible 5 for safety, & 6% of the students who shared their experiences never faced any discrimination over the duration of their studies. 

Give

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A

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

What is student life like at UCSB?

Answered 6 months ago

As per student reviews on Shiksha Study Abroad, the general feeling among students that have pursued respective studies at the university is one of content & satisfaction. The faculty is described as "well-versed in their courses" who push students to explore their potential.

The overall campus envir

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A

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

Are UCSB students happy?

Answered 6 months ago

Yes, based on reviews posted by students on Shiksha Study Abroad, the general consensus among the international students is of satisfaction. The Santa Barbara campus achieved an Safety rating of 4.4 out of 5, which can be deemed pretty good.

Also, 6% of the students who shared their experiences, neve

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A

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

author image
Loveleen Sharma

Study Abroad Expert

Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.
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UC Santa Barbara
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University of California, Santa Barbara
Student Resource Building, Room 3130
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Santa Barbara ( California)

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Phone
(805) 893-2929
Email
oiss@sa.ucsb.edu
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