Santa Clara University Fees and Programs

Santa Clara University fees for the 2023–2024 academic year are approximately $76,000 USD, covering tuition and living expenses. For Indian students, this translates to around ₹63 lakhs (INR), considering an exchange rate of 83 INR per USD. This investment opens doors to one of California’s most historic and respected academic institutions.

Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University (SCU) is the oldest operating higher education institution in California. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SCU’s picturesque campus blends Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, surrounding the iconic Mission Santa Clara de Asís.

The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across six schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Leavey School of Business, and School of Engineering. With a student body of around 5,400 undergraduates and 3,300 postgraduates, SCU maintains a close-knit and academically rigorous environment.

Santa Clara boasts a strong alumni network that includes governors, U.S. senators, founders of major tech companies like Nvidia, and the creator of JavaScript. Notably, the last two Governors of California were SCU alumni.

Athletically, the Santa Clara Broncos compete in 19 NCAA Division I sports. The university has produced elite athletes, including Olympic gold medalists and professionals across the MLB, NFL, and NBA.

With strong academic rankings and a legacy of leadership and innovation, SCU stands out as a top choice for students aiming for excellence in academics and beyond.

For more information about Santa Clara University, click here.

Know in detail about Santa Clara University’s popular programs

• BS In Management Information Systems
• BS In Bioengineering
• MBA (Executive)
• PhD In Computer Science & Engineering
• MSBA In Business Analytics
• MS In Aerospace Engineering
• MS In Engineering Management & Leadership

Santa Clara University Acceptance Rate

• SCU admits approximately 44% of applicants, with Early Decision acceptance notably higher—around 71–73%

• Recent data shows ~18,960 applicants and ~9,000 acceptances (~47%) for the Class of 2028

Santa Clara University Eligibility Criteria

• Academics: Strong GPA around 3.7–3.9 unweighted; ~60% had 3.75+

• Coursework (minimum):

  • English 4 yrs, Math 3 (4 recommended), Lab Science 2 (3 recommended), Social Science 3, Foreign Language 2 (3+ recommended), plus Visual/Performing Arts 1 yr

• Test-Optional: SAT/ACT not required; ~41% of admitted submitted scores. For those who do, middle 50% SAT 1340–1500, ACT 30–33

• Holistic Review: They evaluate GPA, rigor, essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and “fit” with Jesuit values.

“They want a community of people who share values of service, social justice… average GPA for accepted students… was 3.85.”

Santa Clara University Admission Requirements

• Application via Common App with a $70 fee (waivers available)

• Required materials:

  • Official high school transcript, mid-year report (Regular/ED deferrals)

  • At least one academic teacher recommendation + counselor report

  • Personal essay/statement (required)

  • Optional interview for international applicants (InitialView/Vericant)

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