UC Santa Cruz
UC Santa Cruz is a public research university known for its redwood-forest campus, strong astrophysics and computer science/game design programs, and a distinctive residential college system modeled on Oxbridge.
#458
QS World Rank 2026
~$48,908/yr
Undergraduate Tuition (Intl.)
Top-Ranked
Astrophysics & Game Design
Santa Cruz, CA
Campus Location
Why UCSC
Why Indian students choose UCSC
Astrophysics & Astronomy Strength
Home to the UC Observatories headquarters and internationally recognized astrophysics research.
Top-Ranked Game Design Program
UCSC's computer science and game design programs are among the most respected in the US.
Redwood Forest Campus
A uniquely beautiful campus set among coastal redwoods, minutes from the Pacific Ocean.
Residential College System
Ten distinct residential colleges create smaller academic communities within a larger research university.
Genomics Research Origins
UCSC is where the initial human genome browser was developed, anchoring strong bioinformatics research.
UC System Value
Globally recognized UC degree with a strong research profile relative to its size.
Popular Programs
Top courses for Indian students
MS Computer Science
Baskin School of Engineering
MS Technology & Information Management
Baskin School of Engineering
BS Computer Science: Game Design
Baskin School of Engineering
BS Astrophysics
Division of Physical & Biological Sciences
Investment
Fees at a glance
Indicative annual tuition fees for the 2027 intake.
| Program | Annual Fee | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MS Technology & Information Management | ~$44,000 | 1.5-2 years |
| MS Computer Science | ~$44,000 | 1.5-2 years |
| General Graduate Programs | Comparable per-program structure | 1.5-2 years |
Fees are indicative for the 2027 intake and vary by program and specialisation. Confirm exact figures with your BNPS counsellor or the official university fee calculator.
Before You Apply
What you'll need
Every program has specific requirements, but most applications from India follow this checklist. Your BNPS counsellor will confirm exactly what applies to your chosen course.
Academic transcripts from your qualifying degree (minimum GPA varies by program)
TOEFL 90+ / IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent English proficiency score
SAT/ACT for undergraduate, GRE/GMAT for select graduate programs
Statement of Purpose and letters of recommendation
Proof of funds (I-20 / financial affidavit) for your F-1 visa application
Funding Your Degree
Scholarships worth knowing about
UC Santa Cruz International Scholarship
Partial merit-based award
Departmental Merit Awards
Amount varies by department
Ready to Begin?
Your seat at UCSCstarts with one conversation.
BNPS international has guided students to UCSCfor years — from shortlisting the right program to visa approval. Let's talk about your profile.
← Back to all destinations