Most Affordable in Southern California
Every student, regardless of income, who dreams big and works hard should be able to graduate from the greatest public university system in the world! Let us show you how to pay for school as a Highlander at the University of California, Riverside (UCR).
Most Affordable Prestigious University in SoCal
Based on cost of living and Pell and other Federal Grants given (NCES 2022-23 Data).
UCR is a proud member of the esteemed Association of American Universities (AAU), alongside UCI, UCLA, UCSD, UCSB, Caltech, and USC.
85% of UC Riverside Undergrads Awarded Aid
Of those who applied for aid.
Plus, 97% of undergrads who were awarded aid received need-based scholarships and/or grants.
UCR Financial Aid Office, 2023-24
No. 1 for Social Mobility
UCR is nationally recognized for elevating low-income graduates to a higher standard of living.
U.S. News, 2024
5-Stars
One of only 54 universities, including Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and Yale, to receive a 5-star ranking based on quality of education, affordability, and student outcomes.
Money Magazine’s 2024 List of Best Colleges, 2024
Value of a UC Riverside Degree
Find out how valuable a UCR degree can be for more earnings, career options, and employability.
Explore ValueHow to Make UC Riverside Affordable
Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan
If you’re a CA resident and your family income is less than $80,000 a year, you can have all your system-wide tuition and fees covered!
Learn More >>Grants
You may be eligible for grants, which do NOT have to be repaid. It's free money! There are various grants available that may apply to you.
Learn More >>Scholarships
You may be eligible for both UCR-specific scholarships and many available scholarships from off-campus organizations. We’ve got nine tips to help you find some!
Learn More >>Veterans
Student veterans, dependents, and other military-affiliated students may have access to other financial benefits to help pay for their UC Riverside education.
Learn More >>Summer Sessions
Taking courses during the summer is a great way to save money, especially with our cap on tuition at eight units, meaning you don’t pay any tuition beyond those eight units!
Learn More >>Working as a Student
Working on or off campus can be a great way to make money and get work experience, so learn about what your options might be.
Learn More >>
Cost of Attendance
What will it cost YOU?
Each student is different, so look into what your actual costs may be!
COST ESTIMATORUniversity of California Tuition Stability Plan
As an incoming UCR Highlander, your tuition will remain flat until you graduate, for up to six years! This makes it easier for you to plan for the cost of achieving a UC degree.
Ready to apply for financial aid?
The very first thing you need to do is complete your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) by the March 2 priority deadline. Even if you don’t think you may receive much aid, complete this to confirm your eligibility.
Which one do you complete? The FAFSA is for U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, eligible non-citizens (per FAFSA), and T visa holders. The CADAA is for AB 540/SB 68 eligible California residents who are undocumented, DACAmented, U visa holders, or TPS holders.
“Financial aid has allowed me to achieve and maintain my dream of being in college. Without financial assistance, it would not be possible for me to obtain a four-year degree successfully and comfortably.”
– Maeve, Class of '23
Lower Cost of Living
The cost of living in Riverside is much lower than metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. This makes renting or sharing an off-campus apartment or house a lot more affordable.
Other Resources
Foster Youth
If you’re currently or formerly in foster support, there may be additional aid to help you pay for your UCR degree!
Learn More >>Student Parents
If you have your own children (under 18 years of age), there’s additional aid available to help pay for your education!
Learn More >>Native American Opportunity Plan
If you’re a Native American student, your entire tuition can be paid for through the Native American Opportunity Plan!
Learn More >>California DREAM Loan
The California DREAM Loan Program provides eligible undocumented AB 540 undergraduates with the option to borrow loans to help cover the cost of attending UCR.
Learn More >>Open a CalKIDS Account
If you have a young child of your own, start their college fund now by opening a CalKIDS account for them!
Learn More >>Enroll in CalFresh
In case you ever need assistance paying for groceries, see if you’ll qualify for the CalFresh program to receive monthly funds to help pay for healthy, nutritious foods.
Learn More >>College Corps
You can be rewarded for your civic involvement, with up to $10,000 in return for volunteering in your community!
Learn More >>