Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University's tuition and fees for the 2025-2026 school year are $62,760, with room and board costing $19,446. While the cost of attendance is significant, 75% of students receive financial aid, with an average total aid award of $28,375. SCU is recognized as a college with a strong return on investment, especially for engineering, communications and business majors.

Santa Clara University is considered 'more selective,' with an acceptance rate of 44%. The admissions process is holistic, considering factors beyond GPA and test scores, such as extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays. While test-optional, admitted students typically have SAT scores in the 1340-1500 range or ACT scores of 30-33.

Santa Clara University offers a blend of high-tech innovation with a commitment to social consciousness, grounded in the Jesuit tradition. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 and an average class size of 23, fostering an environment of close interaction with professors. SCU is known for its strong undergraduate teaching, ranking among the top schools nationally.

SCU graduates are highly sought after, with a class of 2023 average starting salary of $71,197 for undergraduates. PayScale ranks SCU in the top 1% of universities for early and mid-career salaries of undergraduate alumni. The university's Career Center is ranked among the best in the U.S., and 80% of students have at least one internship before graduating.

Santa Clara University offers a vibrant campus life with over 125 registered student organizations, ranging from athletic and recreational to cultural and religious groups. A significant portion of students live in Residential Learning Communities (RLCs), which integrate classroom and residential experiences. While Greek life exists off-campus, the university emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement.

While specific details on campus safety measures are limited in the provided documents, Santa Clara University is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. The university promotes diversity and inclusion, aiming to ensure all students feel valued and respected. Students are encouraged to report any safety concerns to campus authorities.

The University Honors Program (UHP) at Santa Clara University offers small, seminar-style classes that emphasize critical thinking and global engagement. Honors students benefit from priority registration, dedicated housing options, and the opportunity to complete a senior thesis. The program also provides access to special scholarships and fellowships, including the Oxford Scholarship for study at Mansfield College.

Santa Clara University welcomes students from around the world, with international students comprising approximately 7% of the undergraduate population. The university offers support services for international students, including assistance with immigration forms and policies. Students from 81 countries are represented at SCU, with the majority coming from India, China, and Taiwan.