Study Abroad at University of California, Santa Barbara

United States West Santa Barbara

UC Santa Barbara offers world-class academics in Southern California on an oceanfront campus considered to be one of the most beautiful campuses in the world. The university is known for its collaborative culture, student-focused resources, and groundbreaking innovations across many disciplines of study. Classes are held in state-of-the-art facilities. The student body is diverse, active and undoubtedly embraces the California lifestyle. You’ll fit right if you enjoy biking and skateboarding to class, as well as surfing, hiking and swimming in your free time. On-campus restaurants feature healthy options, tasty Latin fare and cuisines from across Asia. This is a study abroad experience you won’t want to miss.

Academic strength: Biological & Physical Sciences, Business, Economics & Finance, Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Management, Criminal Justice & Law, Education & Child Development, English
Rankings: Times Top 100

About the University

University of California, Santa Barbara

Leading in sustainability and natural beauty, UCSB has continued its quiet research revolution and comprehensive liberal arts education since its early life as teaching college. With six Nobel laureates, 41 American Academy of Arts and Sciences members, and game-changing innovations to its name, it is an inspirational place to be.

The UCSB campus has a wholly California vibe. Most of the very-active, thrillingly diverse student body bikes and skateboards to the classes, putting as much passion into surfing, hiking, and exploring as they do their studies.

Learn more at University of California, Santa Barbara's official website

SAF's Student Promise

Unparalleled Access

We know your destination and host university inside and out

Total Support

We manage your housing, insurance, application - the entire adventure

24/7 Health & Safety Coverage

Our experts are available around-the-clock for support when you need it

In It For You

As a registered US not-for-profit, it's our mission that drives us

We've Seen It All

For over 70 years we have curated world-class study abroad experiences

Official Associations

Over 300 of the world's best universities trust our study abroad expertise

Kei Watanabe
“Before studying abroad, I was at a stage where I was wondering whether to go to graduate school or get a job, so was important to collect information to decide the future direction of my life. Now that I have been abroad, I want you to study abroad and enjoy yourself to the fullest!”
Kei Watanabe, Past SAF Student

Lynch's Life at UCSB

"You have to embrace the life around you"

I chose to study abroad because I knew it would be a meaningful experience that would help me in the future.

When I first came here, I felt reluctant to talk to strangers. But here, you have to be open to the outside world. You have to embrace the life around you.

I love to spend my time on the beach with my friends - it's the best!

Student Health & Safety

We champion health, safety, and security. As part of IES Abroad, the largest study abroad organization in the United States, we have set the standard for health and safety in study abroad for decades. We plan for the ‘what if’, so you can get on with the experience of a lifetime.
International Health Insurance

International health insurance included in the cost of your program

24/7 Emergency Phone Support

Total coverage to support you while traveling and in your new city

Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information prepared based on your destination

Health In Your Language

Highly trained multilingual staff to connect you to healthcare providers

Secure Housing

Quality, safe, secure housing within close proximity to your classes

Dedicated Expertise

Protection by a Dean of Students Office advocating for your interests

Schedule a Consultation

Interested in studying abroad with us? Schedule a call with us and we'll help you select a program.

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