A vibrant peer and academic support structure is essential to student success. FSSP empowers students to create such a foundation by connecting with academic advisors, student-support counselors, and internationally recognized faculty. In addition to the emphasis on academics, the program offers numerous opportunities for students to forge friendships through social activities that cater to a variety of interests. Among the large cohort of FSSP students, you will find a community of friends you can rely on throughout your time at UC Santa Barbara. Students and their families are invited to attend one of our Freshman Summer Start Program informational webinars to learn more.
Build Your Community

Housing & Meals
All FSSP students will live on campus in the San Nicolas Residence Hall, overlooking the lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. San Nicolas is conveniently situated near classrooms, the De La Guerra Dining Hall, and the UCSB Library. FSSP students have easy access to recreation rooms, sand volleyball courts, and community lounges. Program participants also enjoy a meal plan that includes 17 meals per week, redeemable at any of UC Santa Barbara's iconic dining commons.
For more information about food resources around UC Santa Barbara, please visit the Associated Students Food Bank.
For basic needs resources, please visit the Student Needs Advising Center.
Please note: There may be some pandemic-related public health and safety restrictions in effect during FSSP. We will update this page with information as conditions change. All students participating in FSSP must be in compliance with the UC COVID-19 vaccination requirement.