UCSB Room and Board Cost

Hi, I'm considering UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) as my top choice for college, but I need to factor in room and board costs. Can anyone provide me with the approximate cost of on-campus housing and meal plans at UCSB? Thanks in advance!

Hello! UC Santa Barbara offers a variety of on-campus housing options and meal plans for students. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the cost of living on campus at UCSB ranges from around $16,000 to $22,000. Keep in mind that this estimate includes both room and board, as well as an allowance for personal expenses.

There are multiple housing options available, including residence halls, university apartments, and family student housing. The cost will vary depending on the type of room you choose (such as a single, double, or triple) and the specific community you live in. Residence halls tend to be a little more expensive due to the convenience of being close to campus and the meal plans that come with them.

UCSB offers several meal plan options for students living in the residence halls. The meal plans offer different combinations of swipes per week for the dining commons and "dining dollars" that can be used at various campus eateries. The cost of meal plans is included in the overall housing cost when you choose to live in a residence hall.

It's important to remember that these costs are subject to change each year, so it's a good idea to check the UCSB Housing website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, you can use UCSB's Net Price Calculator to estimate the total cost of attendance, which takes into account tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses.

When planning your college budget, also consider applying for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any scholarships offered through the university or external sources. These could help offset some of the costs associated with attending college.