The University Immersion Program (UIP) provides the opportunity for international students to enroll in UCSB academic and/or professional development courses in many different disciplines. This program offers an excellent way to experience college life in the USA, and the credits earned may be transferred to universities around the world or used to complement students’ professional goals. Through the UIP, students select one study plan from two options: Academic Studies and Professional Studies

Spaces in the UIP are limited. First come, first served. Please apply early, demand for the program is high and some quarters fill quickly.

Prerequisites

English language proficiency is a minimum requirement. Students must meet all course prerequisites. Acceptance into the UIP depends on careful review of each individual’s background and qualifications and the UIP Director’s approval.

For UCSB courses with prerequisites, students are required to bring descriptions and syllabi of the courses that meet the prerequisites (in English) from their home university to show that they have fulfilled the prerequisites.

To be eligible to enroll, students must present:

• A university transcript (in English)
• A certificate to demonstrate that they have one of the following:
  • Institutional TOEFL® 550
  • CBT TOEFL® 213
  • iBT TOEFL® 80
  • TOEIC® 750
  • IELTS® 6.5
  • Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE®)
  • Business English Certificate (BEC®) Higher Level
  • STEP EIKEN, Grade 1
• TESOL Students: Proof of B.A. or B.S. Degree (translated to English)

Credit Transfer

Academic credit earned through UCSB courses may be transferred to other academic institutions. The receiving institution always determines credit transferability. If students are currently in a degree program at their home institution, they must check with their academic advisor to verify acceptability of UCSB transfer credit. The student’s academic advisor should work closely with them to select and approve their final course of study. If students or academic advisors have questions, they may contact the UIP Director.

Application Deadlines

Due to high demand, students are encouraged to submit applications 12 weeks prior to the program start date. Applications submitted after that date will be considered on a space-available basis only. Students interested in attending the UIP are required to submit a tentative course of study listing their first and second choice of courses.

UIP Schedule

Academic advising, as well as information about faculty, course selection and participation, is provided following acceptance into the program. Staff and the UIP Director work closely with students or their home institution academic advisors to prepare and finalize a study plan. U.S. Immigration requires that full-time students take a minimum of 12 units per quarter in fall, winter, and spring. In summer, students are required to take 8-12 units to qualify for fulltime student status. Students’ course schedules must be approved every term by the UIP Director. The UIP is offered four times throughout the year.

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