About Economics at University of California, San Diego
At University of California, San Diego in San Diego, California, Economics is taught within a university ranked 66th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 — a department that draws on the same facilities, research funding and employer links that make University of California, San Diego a popular choice with international applicants across subjects.
Admission Requirements for Economics
To apply for Economics at University of California, San Diego, international students generally need solid previous academic results, a focused essay explaining why Economics specifically, references, and an approved English score — usually IELTS 6.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 90+. Some Economics programmes at this level also ask for a portfolio, interview or relevant work experience.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
International tuition for Economics at University of California, San Diego falls within the university’s usual $45,000 – $48,000 per year range; the exact figure depends on the specific programme and level (bachelor’s, master’s or PhD). University of California, San Diego’s scholarships — worth up to $8,000 for eligible students — are open to Economics applicants on the same basis as every other department.
Career Prospects After Economics
University of California, San Diego’s careers centre runs Economics-specific employer events and recruiting cycles, which international students are encouraged to use well before their final year. After graduating, eligible students can use OPT — 12 months of US work authorization, extendable to 36 months for STEM graduates — to gain experience, including working abroad after graduation, before settling on a next step.
Comparing Study Destinations
Before committing to Economics at University of California, San Diego, some applicants also compare studying in the United States more broadly against studying in the UK and migrating to Australia — a sensible step if you have not yet fully decided which country, not just which university, is right for your subject.
Apply for Economics at University of California, San Diego with GIEC Global
GIEC Global offers free guidance for Economics applicants to University of California, San Diego — shortlisting the right level and programme variant, reviewing your essays and SOP, preparing documents, applying for scholarships, and supporting your F-1 visa application once you have an admit. We can also walk you through all GIEC Global study-abroad destinations if you are still comparing destinations for Economics.
Course names and curriculum for Economics at University of California, San Diego change slightly year to year, so always check the live programme page for the intake you are actually applying to rather than relying on a general subject overview.
International students choosing Economics at University of California, San Diego over a similar programme elsewhere often cite the department’s research reputation and the location of San Diego itself as the deciding factors, alongside total cost.