Welcome to UC Santa Barbara! We are excited to welcome you to our international graduate student community.

This email contains important information to help you prepare for your arrival, including immigration requirements, campus resources, and practical tips for living in Santa Barbara. We encourage you to review this information carefully and refer back to it throughout your transition to UCSB.

As you prepare for this exciting next chapter, please know that you are not navigating it alone. Our Professional Development team is here to support you and connect you with resources that will help you succeed both inside and outside the classroom. You can find us in the Graduate Student Resource Center (GSRC) in the Student Resource Building, Room 1215 (Tuesday through Friday from 9am - 4pm). You can also reach out to us through email or explore our website.

The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) is your primary resource for immigration advising, cultural support, and advocacy. Their 'Newly Admitted Students' page can be a great place to start if you have questions about forms or navigating the United States of America for the first time.

OISS Services Include:

Contact Information:
Location: Student Resource Building, Room 3130
Phone: (805) 893-2929
Email: oiss@sa.ucsb.edu
Website: www.oiss.ucsb.edu

The closest airport to UCSB is the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), which is a ~10 minute drive from campus. Other nearby airports include Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is a 1.5-2 hour drive, or 100 miles (160km).

Santa Barbara Airbus: Offers shuttle service from LAX to Santa Barbara.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Available at both SBA and LAX.
Public Transportation: Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) provides bus service throughout Santa Barbara.

International travelers should allow at least two hours for passport control and customs. If you miss your connecting flight to LAX or Santa Barbara, ask the airline service representative to rebook your flight and help you find a hotel if you have to stay overnight. The airline will not pay for your hotel if you are delayed by customs and immigration officials. Be sure to have at least $200 with you in case of an unexpected delay and stay over.

Packing List

Transportation

Biking: Biking is a popular and convenient way to travel around campus and Isla Vista. Please ensure you have a lock for your bike.
Bus: The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. UCSB students are eligible for a free/discounted bus pass.
Walking: UCSB is a walkable campus. Many students live within walking distance of campus.
Car: Parking on campus is limited and requires a permit. 

More information on transportation, parking, and commuting options can be found here.

Groceries

UCSB and the surrounding area offer a variety of grocery stores and department stores. You can find a helpful food resource map from Basic Needs here. Health and Wellness also has the UCSB Goleta and SB International Markets Guide.

Your health and well-being are important to us. UC Santa Barbara offers comprehensive health services and resources.   

Health & Wellness Resources: CAPS counseling, wellness workshops, and crisis support.
CAPS: Individual counseling, support groups, and 24/7 hotline.
Basic Needs Center: Food pantry, emergency grants, and housing referrals.
Graduate Parent Resources: Childcare options, parenting support groups, and family housing.

Isla Vista is the community located directly adjacent to the UCSB campus. The majority of Isla Vista residents are UCSB and Santa Barbara City College students. The community is filled with apartments, restaurants, and parks. Many students also enjoy going to the beach, such as Isla Vista Beach, Goleta Beach, and Ellwood Beach. There are also many hiking trails nearby in the Los Padres National Forest and around the mountains.

Located about 10 minutes from campus down Highway 101, the City of Santa Barbara is a stunning seaside town of roughly 91,000 residents. UCSB students can enjoy shopping on State Street, dining in the Funk Zone, and watching artists at the Santa Barbara Bowl, which draws national performers. Santa Barbara is also a diverse cultural hub, and the city celebrates its heritage during Fiesta, a week-long celebration.

Please direct any questions to the Professional Development Unit.

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