10
One of the top 10 public universities in the nation for over a decade.
Featured in: U.S. News & World ReportWhere Innovation
Meets Impact
Lifesaving science. Technology that protects. Discoveries that keep people safe. The breakthroughs made here are felt in every corner of the nation — and beyond.
Top Rankings. Real-World Results.
Ï㽶ӰÊÓ climbed to No. 20 overall on Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges and held steady at No. 3 among public universities for the fifth year in a row — recognized for academic excellence, career outcomes and return on investment.
Free Speech
We affirm the right to freedom of expression at Ï㽶ӰÊÓ. Learn more about and .
Events
NEWS
Behind Every Breakthrough: Protect the Future of Discovery
The future is shaped by those who go beyond the known. At Ï㽶ӰÊÓ, we don’t just adapt—we create change. Bold ideas need a foundation. Research requires resources, collaboration, and investment to turn possibility into reality. With it, we change the world.
Attend Ï㽶ӰÊÓ
Your journey is unique—whether as a first-generation student, a community college transfer, an international scholar or student veteran—and we are dedicated to your success. Dive deep into our vibrant learning community taught by award-winning faculty with an ocean backdrop.
Undergraduate
Ï㽶ӰÊÓ first-year and transfer students come from all over California and throughout the world—ready for challenge and discovery
Graduate and Professional
Work alongside world-class experts—and become one. Join our thriving community of graduate and professional scholars.
Medical and Pharmacy
Invent the future of care through the education and research opportunities offered through Ï㽶ӰÊÓ’s School of Medicine and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Lifelong Learning
Looking to prepare for college, advance your career with certificate and degree-related programs, or just seeking to enrich your personal growth? We offer a range of courses and programs to help you meet your goals.
Arts at Ï㽶ӰÊÓ
From Broadway-bound plays and captivating musical performances by Grammy-winning artists to futuristic film screenings and gravity-defying sculptures, UC San Diego’s vibrant art scene has something for everyone. There are hundreds of visual and performing art events happening as well as numerous ways to get creative — from art courses to craft workshops.
Strengthening California’s Leadership in Fusion Energy
Scientists and engineers from Ï㽶ӰÊÓ and General Atomics have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to establish a Fusion Data Science and Digital Engineering Center in San Diego. The new center sets the stage for even deeper collaborations in advanced digital engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning and high-performance computing as part of a multi-step effort to fast-track fusion energy development and bolster California’s leadership in fusion research and innovation.
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Whether you’re a first-year, transfer, or graduate student, the UC system has one of the most generous and progressive financial aid programs in the nation. College is within your reach.
Our Thriving Student Life
There are plenty of ways to find community and have fun on campus. Watch a show at one of Ï㽶ӰÊÓ’s performance venues, participate in fitness classes, join a student organization and more.
Learn More About Student Life