California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs University of California-Santa Barbara
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo accepts about 31% of applicants; University of California-Santa Barbara accepts about 33%. Here's how they compare on selectivity, cost, and fit — and how to see your real chances at both.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs University of California-Santa Barbara at a glance
| Metric | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | University of California-Santa Barbara |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 31% | 33% |
| SAT (mid-50%) | — | — |
| Test policy | Test-blind | Test-blind |
| In-state tuition | $13,596 | $16,414 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $34,665 | $50,614 |
| Avg. net price | $16,665 | $16,109 |
| Undergrads | 21,996 | 23,113 |
| Location | San Luis Obispo, CA | Santa Barbara, CA |
Which is harder to get into?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and University of California-Santa Barbara are similarly selective: both admit roughly 31% of applicants, so neither is clearly harder to get into. Your real odds depend on your profile.
Which costs less?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and University of California-Santa Barbara cost about the same by average net price ($16,665 vs $16,109). Your real cost depends on residency and aid.
See your chances at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and University of California-Santa Barbara
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Calculate my chances →California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs University of California-Santa Barbara FAQ
Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or University of California-Santa Barbara harder to get into?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and University of California-Santa Barbara are similarly selective: both admit roughly 31% of applicants, so neither is clearly harder to get into. Your real odds depend on your profile.
Which is cheaper, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or University of California-Santa Barbara?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and University of California-Santa Barbara cost about the same by average net price ($16,665 vs $16,109). Your real cost depends on residency and aid.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs University of California-Santa Barbara: which is better?
There's no single "better" — it depends on fit: your intended major, cost after aid, location, size, and your odds of getting in. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo accepts about 31% of applicants; University of California-Santa Barbara accepts about 33%. Use the free calculator below to see your personalized chances at both, then weigh fit and cost.
Full profiles: California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo admission chances · University of California-Santa Barbara admission chances