Required Academic Preparation

Applicants who have conducted their post-secondary education outside of the United States must have completed an undergraduate degree program equivalent to a University of California bachelor's degree by the beginning of their graduate program at UCSB. Equivalent undergraduate degrees usually include a minimum four years of university work and above-average scholarship. The degree must be awarded by an accredited institution. 

Applicants holding only professional diplomas, higher certificates in accounting, business, physical education, or health education from universities or technical and vocational schools may not apply.

Please check your department's application requirements ​for any specific instructions pertaining to international applicants to your department or program of interest.

The International Doctoral Recruitment Fellowship (IDRF) 

For all new incoming international doctoral students, the International Doctoral Recruitment Fellowship (IDRF) can provide significant support for non-resident supplemental tuition (NRST).

Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS)

All international applicants who submit an application for graduate study are encouraged to contact the Office of International Students and Scholars for current information regarding international student expenses, visas, and other non-admissions questions you may have. Once admitted to UCSB, OISS will contact you with additional information and to provide assistance.

Office of International Students and Scholars
Telephone: (805) 893-2929
Fax: (805) 893-7132
ContactOISS@sa.ucsb.edu

For more guidance on applying to UCSB as an international student, see the OISS Prospective Students page.