The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), a prestigious public research university, is known for its competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), UCSB reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 25.9%, reflecting a highly selective process driven by a large and growing applicant pool, academic rigor, and the university’s increasing national reputation. Factors such as the rising number of applications—over 110,000 for the Class of 2028—and a focus on diversity and academic excellence continue to influence selectivity. UCSB provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, offering detailed insights into applicant demographics and acceptance trends.
Over the past decade, UCSB’s acceptance rate has trended downward, reflecting increasing competitiveness as more students apply to the University of California system. While the absence of Early Action or Decision options means all applicants are evaluated in a single cycle, the university’s selectivity remains notable compared to peer institutions like UC San Diego (acceptance rate around 24%) and UC Davis (around 37%). International student admissions have also become more competitive, aligning with broader UC system trends prioritizing in-state applicants due to state funding policies. For prospective students, understanding these trends underscores the importance of strong academic profiles and well-rounded applications to stand out in UCSB’s rigorous admissions process.
