University of California-Santa Cruz acceptance rate
University of California-Santa Cruz has a school-wide acceptance rate of 66%, which makes it moderately selective.
Published tuition & fees: $16,005 in-state, $50,205 out-of-state. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for University of California-Santa Cruz
This school is test-blind or test-optional in the federal data (no published SAT/ACT middle-50% range). Many applicants apply without scores.
University of California-Santa Cruz cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $8,717/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $10,613/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $14,418/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $18,986/yr |
| $110,001+ | $33,323/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
University of California-Santa Cruz has a graduation rate of 75% and graduates earn a median of $68,396 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is University of California-Santa Cruz's acceptance rate?
About 66% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — moderately selective.
How much does University of California-Santa Cruz cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $14,418/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is University of California-Santa Cruz a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →