Understanding the University of California, San Diego Tuition Fees for 2025

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation. As prospective students and their families plan for the 2025 academic year, understanding the cost of attendance is crucial. This comprehensive guide delves into the tuition and associated expenses for both undergraduate and graduate programs at UCSD for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Tuition Stability Plan

UCSD participates in the University of California’s Tuition Stability Plan, which ensures that undergraduate students entering in Fall 2025 will have a fixed tuition rate for up to six years, provided they maintain continuous enrollment. This initiative aims to offer financial predictability amidst rising educational costs.

Estimated Cost of Attendance

The estimated annual cost of attendance for California residents and non-residents is as follows:

• Tuition and Fees:
  • UC Systemwide Tuition: $14,436
  • UC San Diego Campus Fees: $2,379
  • Health Fee: $2,694
  • One-time Document Fee: $165
• Living Expenses:
  • On-Campus: $18,522
  • Off-Campus: $18,405
  • With Parents: $8,022
• Indirect Costs:
  • Books and Supplies: $1,287
  • Personal Expenses: $2,229–$2,535
  • Transportation: $927–$2,451

Total Estimated Cost:

• On-Campus: $42,639
• Off-Campus: $43,686
• With Parents: $33,969

Note: Non-resident students are subject to an additional $34,200 in supplemental tuition, bringing their total estimated cost to approximately $76,839 for on-campus living. Graduate Tuition and Fees

Graduate programs at UCSD vary in cost based on the specific school and program. Below is an overview of the estimated costs for the 2024–2025 academic year:

General Graduate Programs

• Tuition and Fees:
  • UC Systemwide Tuition: $14,016
  • UC San Diego Campus Fees: $1,080
  • Health Fee: $5,643 (may be waived with equivalent private insurance)
• Living Expenses:
  • On-Campus Housing: $18,522
  • Off-Campus Housing: $18,405
• Indirect Costs:
  • Books and Supplies: $1,287
  • Personal Expenses: $2,229–$2,535
  • Transportation: $927–$2,451

Total Estimated Cost:

• On-Campus: $41,889–$42,105
• Off-Campus: $41,772–$42,088

Note: Specific programs may have additional fees or different cost structures.

Rady School of Management (Full-Time MBA Program)

• Tuition and Fees:
  • Academic Year: $12,762
  • Summer: $2,244
  • Campus-Based Fees: $1,080
  • Health Insurance: $6,076
  • Activity Fee: $150
• Living Expenses:
  • Without Dependents: $30,093
  • With Dependents: $34,052
• Indirect Costs:
  • Books and Supplies: $1,231
  • Personal Expenses: $2,622
  • Transportation: $4,066

Total Estimated Cost:

• $96,658 for California residents and non-residents

Note: The above costs are based on full-time enrollment and may vary for part-time students.

Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)

• Tuition and Fees:
  • Academic Year: $59,892
  • Summer: $11,408
  • Campus-Based Fees: $1,080
  • Health Insurance: $6,404
  • Activity Fee: $150
• Living Expenses:
  • Without Dependents: $30,093
  • With Dependents: $34,052
• Indirect Costs:
  • Books and Supplies: $0
  • Personal Expenses: $2,622
  • Transportation: $4,066

Total Estimated Cost:

• $117,133 for California residents and non-residents

Note: Costs are based on full-time enrollment and may vary for part-time students.

 Financial Aid and Scholarships

UCSD is committed to making education accessible through various financial aid options:

• Need-Based Financial Aid: UCSD offers a comprehensive need-based financial aid program to assist students in covering tuition and living expenses. The university’s admission program is need-blind for all but some international applicants, meaning financial status will not affect the admission decision.
• Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities through the UCSD Financial Aid & Scholarships Office.
• Net Price Calculator: UCSD provides a Net Price Calculator to help prospective students estimate their financial aid eligibility and the net cost of attendance. This tool considers various factors, including family income, household size, and residency status.

Housing and Living Expenses

UCSD offers a range of housing options to accommodate students:

• On-Campus Housing: The university provides on-campus housing through its HousingDiningHospitality (HDH) services. On-campus living offers convenience and fosters a sense of community among students.
• Off-Campus Housing: For those who prefer off-campus living, UCSD’s Off-Campus Housing Office assists students in finding suitable accommodations in the surrounding La Jolla area.
• Living Expenses: In addition to housing, students should budget for food, transportation, personal expenses, and books and supplies. The estimated annual living expenses for students without dependents range from $8,022 (living with parents) to $18,522 (on-campus housing).

Tuition Trends and Comparisons

Over the past decade, UCSD’s tuition and fees have experienced a steady increase:

• 2014: $36,305
• 2024: $46,042

This represents a 26.82% increase over ten years, reflecting the broader trend of rising higher education costs nationwide.

In comparison to other institutions:

• University of California, Berkeley: $46,000
• University of California, Los Angeles: $45,000
• California State University, San Diego State: $8,728

While UCSD’s tuition is higher than some institutions, it is important to consider the value offered in terms of academic programs, research opportunities, and campus facilities.

Understanding the cost of attendance at UCSD is a vital step in planning for higher education. While the tuition and fees may seem substantial, the university offers a range of financial aid options to assist students in managing these expenses. Prospective students are encouraged to utilize the Net Price Calculator and explore scholarship opportunities to make their education at UCSD more affordable.

For more detailed information and to estimate your financial aid eligibility, visit  UCSD Financial Aid & Scholarships Office