We recommend completing the following tasks before, during, and after you submitting your online application to your chosen graduate program at UC Santa Barbara. Make sure to also check on your chosen program's requirements.
- Check on your department requirements.
- Can't find what you are looking for?
Read through the information below, review our frequently asked questions, or contact the Admissions team.
Before you apply
Learn about all of our 50+ graduate degree programs.
Contact faculty in your department/program of interest to discuss research opportunities for graduate students and/or reach out to the Staff Graduate Program Advisor with any questions that you have about the program or application process.
Plan ahead to make sure all of your application materials are ready by your program's application deadline. We recommend contacting your recommenders and scheduling any required exams (GRE, TOEFL, etc.) at least six weeks in advance to ensure all required application materials are received on time.
Submitting your application
Online Application & Application Fee
Complete and submit the online application by your department/program's application deadline. If you are submitting a fee waiver request, be sure to do so at least two weeks prior to your application deadline. The fee waiver request and any supporting documentation should be submitted within your online application.
Transcripts from all Post-Secondary Institutions
Report your education information and upload a copy of each set of transcripts in your online application.
Statement of Purpose, Personal History and Diversity Statement, and Resume/CV
Upload both of the required essays and your resume/CV to your online application.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters are required. Your recommenders should upload their letters to the online application using the link they received via email.
Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores
If your program requires the GRE, self-report your scores in the online application and have your official scores sent to the UCSB Graduate Institution using institution code 4835. Check your department/program requirements to find out if the GRE is required. The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) may substitute for TMP applicants.
TOEFL or IELTS Scores (if applicable)
Self-report your scores in the online application and have your official TOEFL scores sent to the UCSB Graduate Institution using institution code 4835. Applicants taking the IELTS must make arrangements directly with the IELTS testing center by requesting that University of California, Santa Barbara - Graduate Admissions receive your scores.
Unable to take TOEFL or IELTS? Due to the emergency circumstances that applicants in some parts of the world are currently facing, the UC Santa Barbara Graduate Division is temporarily accepting the Duolingo English Test (DET) on an exceptional basis for 2023 applicants only. See our How to Apply Guide for details.
Supplemental Materials Required by Department
Check for any supplemental materials required by your department/program.
After you apply
Be patient.
It often takes several months for departments to review applications and release admissions decisions. Check the status of your application online or follow up with your department if you have specific questions.
Respond to Offers
The national deadline for applicants to respond to offers of financial support is April 15. The final deadline to submit a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) at UCSB is June 15.
Research Housing and Financial Aid Options
- Individuals who are U.S. citizens (or dual citizens) should submit the FAFSA by March 2
- All applicants should apply for UCSB Housing by the housing deadline (typically mid-May)