Key Takeaways
| Factor | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $15,348 (in-state), $46,374 (out-of-state) | Annual rates |
| Housing | $11,420 | On-campus residence halls |
| Meal Plan | $5,500 | Standard meal plan |
| Books & Supplies | $1,400 | Estimated annual cost |
| Personal Expenses | $2,200 | Varies per student |
| Total (In-State) | ~$35,868 | Before financial aid |
| Total (Out-of-State) | ~$66,894 | Before financial aid |
Thinking about studying at University of California San Diego (UCSD)? Understanding the cost of attendance is crucial for planning. This guide breaks down tuition, housing, meal plans, and hidden fees so you know exactly what to expect.
General Overview of Costs
University of California San Diego Cost of Attendance
Studying at UC San Diego isn’t just about tuition. You’ll need to consider housing, food, books, and other expenses.
Cost Breakdown Table
| Category | Cost (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $15,348 (in-state), $46,374 (out-of-state) |
| Housing & Meals | $16,920 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,400 |
| Miscellaneous Fees | $2,200 |
| Total (In-State) | ~$35,868 |
| Total (Out-of-State) | ~$66,894 |
University of California San Diego Net Price Calculator
Use the Net Price Calculator on the UCSD website to get a custom estimate based on financial aid, scholarships, and personal factors.
Key Costs to Keep in Mind
- Mandatory Campus Fees (Student Services, Tech, Lab Fees)
- Transportation & Parking Permits
- Health Insurance (unless waived)
Cost Based on Residency Status
University of California San Diego Cost for In-State Students
- Tuition & Fees: $15,348
- Estimated Total Cost: ~$35,868
University of California San Diego Cost for Out-of-State Students
- Non-Resident Tuition Surcharge: $31,026
- Estimated Total Cost: ~$66,894
Bullet Points: Residency & Cost Factors
- California residents get lower tuition thanks to state funding.
- Non-residents pay significantly more.
- International students are subject to the same fees as out-of-state students.
Cost by Academic Level and Program
University of California San Diego Graduate Program Cost
Costs vary by degree program.
Table: Graduate Program Costs
| Program | Tuition (Annual) | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| General Graduate | $17,000 (in-state) | Lab fees vary |
| MBA (Rady School) | $50,000+ | Higher for non-residents |
| Medical School | $38,000+ | Additional lab & clinical fees |
| Law Programs | $44,000+ | Varies by specialization |
University of California San Diego Undergraduate Cost
- Standard tuition rates apply
- Some majors (like Engineering) have extra fees
- Study abroad programs may add costs
Bullet Points: Academic Costs & Fees
- STEM majors may have higher lab & equipment fees.
- MBA & Medical School have special tuition structures.
- Graduate students often qualify for assistantships.
Cost Components and Living Expenses
University of California San Diego Housing Cost
Housing costs depend on on-campus vs. off-campus choices.
Table: Housing Cost Comparison
| Housing Type | Cost (Annual) |
|---|---|
| On-Campus Residence Halls | $11,420 |
| Off-Campus Shared Apartment | $10,000-$15,000 |
| Off-Campus Private Housing | $18,000+ |
University of California San Diego Meal Plan Cost
Meal plans range from $3,500 to $5,500 per year depending on dining options.
Bullet Points: Meal Plan Details
- Unlimited Meal Plan: Best for students eating most meals on campus.
- Flex Plan: Offers meal credits for dining halls & campus cafés.
- Budget Plan: Fewer meals, ideal for students who cook at home.
Financial Assistance and Cost Adjustment
University of California San Diego Cost After Financial Aid
Over 70% of students receive some form of aid.
Table: Common Financial Aid Options
| Aid Type | Coverage Amount |
|---|---|
| Federal Grants | Up to $6,895 |
| California State Grants | Up to $9,220 |
| Scholarships | Varies (Merit & Need-based) |
| Work-Study | Varies (Campus Jobs) |
University of California San Diego Scholarship Options and Cost
UCSD offers numerous scholarships, including:
- Regents Scholarship (Merit-based, up to $10,000)
- Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan (Covers tuition for low-income students)
- Athletic & Departmental Scholarships
Bullet Points: Maximizing Aid
- Apply early (FAFSA deadline: March 2)
- Use UCSD’s scholarship portal
- Check for external scholarships
Comparative and Trend Analysis
University of California San Diego Tuition Increase
Tuition has risen 3-5% annually in recent years.
Table: UCSD vs. Other UC Schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| UC San Diego | $15,348 | $46,374 |
| UCLA | $13,804 | $46,326 |
| UC Berkeley | $15,891 | $47,025 |
University of California San Diego Budget Estimate for Students
A smart budget includes tuition, living, books, and fun money.
Bullet Points: Budgeting Tips
- Look for used textbooks
- Use public transit to save money
- Find on-campus jobs for extra cash
Decision-Making Support
University of California San Diego: Is It Worth the Cost?
UC San Diego ranks among the top public universities with strong STEM programs, research opportunities, and high graduate salaries.
Final Thoughts:
- UCSD provides strong ROI, especially for STEM students.
- High tuition is offset by generous financial aid.
- San Diego’s cost of living is a factor to consider.
If UC San Diego aligns with your career goals, it’s worth the investment! 🎓🔥
