International Students – UCSB

Tropicana Gardens is a private residence hall for University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) students. We are located on the edge of the lively student community of Isla Vista. Relax by our heated pool, play a game of ping-pong in the rec room or work out in the Fitness Center. Take a short bus ride to go shopping in Goleta or sightseeing in Santa Barbara.

Furnished Suites

Tropicana Garden’s suites, which include bedrooms, bathrooms and a living room but no kitchen, come completely furnished. All you need to bring is bedding, towels, your clothes, toiletries and personal care items. Choose from single occupancy bedrooms, or shared doubles, triples or quad bedrooms. Live with American students or other international students.

On-site Meal Plan

Our on-site cafe provides you with a buffet restaurant style experience. You’ll have your choice of 7, 10 (included in standard with contract), 14, 17 or 19 meals per week. No need to worry about grocery shopping, cooking or cleaning a kitchen! Everything is freshly prepared, never frozen or canned. There are always vegetarian options available.

All-Inclusive Housing Package

At Tropicana residence hall, unlike an apartment, you won’t need to open up your own accounts with the electric company, an internet provider, trash service, and the water company. Your all-inclusive monthly payment covers it all: rent, unlimited meals and utilities, even WiFi. We lease by the bed so you are only responsible for yourself. You need not worry about your roommates paying their share of expenses.

It’s Easy to Meet People

Our community has student Resident Assistants who organize dozens of social and recreational events each semester. While participating in activities ranging from hiking to canvas painting, you’ll get to know many more American students than in a traditional apartment setting—and you will have many more opportunities to perfect your English.

Stay through Academic Holidays

Students traditionally go home during academic breaks. As an International Student, you may stay in your suite at no additional charge for Thanksgiving, Winter & Spring holidays, if you choose not to explore the United States or go home. Our on-site cafe is closed during all academic holidays and the front desk will have reduced hours.

Move In Early

Students arriving early are welcome to move in early to Tropicana Gardens. Arrangements can be made in accordance with the required arrival dates of UCSB Office of International Student Services. Students who have signed an Academic or Semester Lease are welcome to stay for no additional cost until the start of their contract. Students who have not signed a lease are welcome to stay at Tropicana as a temporary resident for the current nightly rates for a minimum of 7 days. When temporary residents sign an Academic or a quarter Lease they will have all nightly rates waived and previous funds applied towards their Academic or quarter Lease. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email the Leasing Department for more information.

Questions? Call (805) 968-4319. Apply now to reserve your space.