Study in Santa Barbara

If you’ve ever dreamt of spending a year immersed in the California lifestyle then studying in Santa Barbara is for you. An active beach culture, multicultural population and stunning natural beauty define this ocean-side community. Santa Barbara is home to the University of California at Santa Barbara, lending the city a young and progressive vibe. EF’s English studies are catered towards students planning on entering American university and our exam preparation courses, academic writing classes, and the EF University Foundation Year program ensure a strong foundation.

Our study programs are held in a Spanish colonial villa, complete with the traditional red-tile roof and white-stucco façade. The heritage building features an outdoor student patio, sporting facilities and several student lounges. EF Santa Barbara is situated in the city’s downtown, walking distance from golden-sand beaches, restaurants of the historic La Arcada district, and the hiking trails of the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Learn more about our study programs in Santa Barbara

California on the Coast

Long stretches of pristine coastline. Palm trees and a cobbled downtown. A young, multicultural population fond of dressing in board shorts and sandals. And toned bodies balancing atop surfboards, hiking up mountains and relaxing in sidewalk cafes. Welcome to Santa Barbara, the place where California dreams are a reality.

Study in Santa Barbara for an extended period and you’ll immerse in the famed California lifestyle. Enroll in early-morning surf lessons and start your days on the top of a longboard. Stay in shape by jogging along the ocean shore or biking on the city’s extensive bike paths. Join fellow international students for beach barbeques. And spend your weekends discovering California beyond Santa Barbara by visiting San Francisco and Los Angeles or camping among the thick redwood forests of the state’s national parks.

Explore the student life in Santa Barbara