Why Step UPP at UC Santa Barbara?

As a defined pathway, it allows students to receive an exceptional, progressive preparation for succeeding in the rigorous academic environment of top universities in the US.

Step 1 - Apply

To Submit your Application you will need
- Copy of your passport
- Photo passport-style 
- High school transcript and diploma (GPA 2.7)
- English language proficiency (TOEFL 75; IELTS 6.0; Duolingo 95; CET-4 500)
- Proof of financial eligibility (tuition plus estimated living expenses)

Step 2 - Summer English Academy

The English training schedule consists of four hours per day and four days a week, for six weeks. Coursework will include:
- Academic Reading and Writing
- Language and Culture
- Grammar 
- Speaking and Pronunciation
 

Step 3 - Academic Year

The academic year will include the following: 

Fall Quarter:
- 1 General education course 
- 2 Academic English language preparation courses

Winter Quarter:
- 3 General education courses 

Spring Quarter: 
- 3 General education courses 

The schedule for classes will be provided one week before the start of each quarter. The General Education courses may include Economics, Geography, Psychology, Anthropology, and/ or Communication. Courses subjects are subject to change.
 

Step 4 - Transfer to SBCC

After the Spring quarter, students will transfer to Santa Barbara City College to complete their General Education requirements.

UCSB will assist with applying to Santa Barbara City College and work closely with advisors there to get students enrolled 
 

Step 5 - Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG)
 

Students apply to the TAG  program to gain admission to UCSB. The SBCC International office will assist students through this process.
 

AY 2025-2026 - Program Dates & Tuition Pricing
Application fee: $210
Orientation: August 7, 2025
Summer Summer English Academy (6 weeks): August 11, 2025 to September 19, 2025 (mandatory)*
2025-2026 Academic Year: September 21, 2025 to June 12, 2026

 

Payment is required in full at the time of acceptance.