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Santa Clara University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Santa Clara University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Santa Clara University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Santa Clara University reviews, or contribute your own Santa Clara University review if you're a current student there.

  • 22 out of 22 people found this review useful.

    Bao from San Jose, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The faculty offer much more than what textbooks can do. Not only that, but just seeing all different types of people from different backgrounds builds the social aspect as well as the classroom aspect. It's also very easy to get to know people since the campus and size isn't obscenely huge. With that said, class sizes are also small, so there's many chances to, you know, get to remember people?
    Am enjoying being here

    Work hard, play hard. That age-old saying applies very heavily here, since it's so easy to get sucked into all kinds of activities on campus. The classrooms and multiple buildings are all in great condition, and there's enough time and space to have an enjoyable social life and a stimulating classroom life. Campus is also very clean, so it's always a nice day.
    Bang for the buck

    As they say, you get what you pay for. As a private university it assures high quality service, and Santa Clara does not disappoint at all. If you can afford it, or if you're riding on merit money (kinda like me), then I would definitely put this college on your list.
    Tips for prospective students

    Whether you're a commuter or a resident of the dorms, try to get involved on campus. The people are nice and interesting enough to get to know you, and there's literally something for everybody.
    Great for these types of students

    Outgoing
    Social
    Desire an active college experience
    Desire smaller classes

  • 12 out of 12 people found this review useful.

    Mark from Castro Valley, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am currently going into my second year of college here at Santa Clara and we are on a quarter system so classes go by fast and therefore I have already taken about 12 different classes. You can take up to 18 units per semester and most classes are 4 - 5 units each. The best thing about Santa Clara's educational management system is that once you apply in a direction of a certain major, it is required for some upperclassmen to volunteer to guide all freshmen in picking all these classes and organizing what you will be doing for the year. So, the stress of picking classes is greatly decreased.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love the Santa Clara College experience. I have friends that go to colleges all over the country and I have visited them and am glad that I go to such a great school. First, I am in California, the state with the best weather. Second, because it is a smaller school I see my friends all over campus all the time and do things such as meet for lunch before or after class at the local cafeteria, Benson, which serves pretty good food and is in the center of campus. Lastly, although it is a smaller school, I surprisingly still meet new people everyday.
    Bang for the buck

    Santa Clara University is quite expensive but I believe that the whole experience makes up for every single penny. Also, the financial aid department is quite giving even in these times of economic downfall.
    Tips for prospective students

    The best tip for prospective students is to visit the school for yourself and see what all the fuss is about.
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great if you love having a core group of friends and want to slowly burst out of your comfort zone and meet new people. I came to this school not knowing anyone but really quickly made best friends that I know I will keep in touch with for the rest of my life. The size of the school allowed me to easily stay connected with my core group of friends as well as make new friends when I am feeling adventurous.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Lauren from Seattle, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    They say life is what you make it. This statement is especially true of the learning environment and curriculum at Santa Clara. You will learn as much or as little as you would like. The homework, papers and exams are not exceptionally difficult and, if you put in a decent amount of effort, you would have no problem earning at least a B in all of your classes and learn some new and valuable information. However, if you are coming to college with the intent of learning as much as you possibly can, the teachers are extremely accessible and willing to share their knowledge with you. If you visit professors during their office hours, spend a lot of time on assignments and participate often, there is no reason why you would not learn a great deal during your time here.
    Am enjoying being here

    The atmosphere on campus can be described by the adage Work hard, play hard. Almost everyone at SCU will tell you that they love every second of being here. The combination of year-round sunshine, friendly people, beautiful campus and San Francisco and the beaches of Santa Cruz within easy reach makes it difficult to not have a good time here. On the weekends, as well as many days of the week, there is always a party or various other social events to attend. Partying is very big on campus and, while there are other events planned, they are not well-attended and parties become your only option if you wish to socialize with others.
    Bang for the buck

    Make no mistakes, this school is expensive. However, you can easily see where your money is going when you look at our pristine facilities, small class sizes, distinguished faculty and the job offers students receive upon graduation. The school offers many scholarships and grants which makes the experience more affordable. While there are times when I see money spent unnecessarily, I believe the pros far outweigh the cons of this institution.
    Tips for prospective students

    As an incoming student, try your best to relinquish all your expectations of what college life is supposed to be like as you will most likely be let down or else very surprised. This advice holds true no matter where you choose to attend school. Additionally, try lots of new activities and consider rushing for a sorority or fraternity (even if you don't join, the process is a great way to meet new people at the beginning of the year). Santa Clara is a small school, but you can make it bigger by getting involved with campus life. Also, be sure to communicate boundaries and rules with your roommate at the beginning of the school year to prevent any disagreements.
    Great for these types of students

    If you spend almost all day, every day with a smile on your face, enjoy the sunshine and the casual attitude of the West Coast, consider yourself a friendly and outgoing person, you will love Santa Clara. If you don't want to spend all of your time, or even half of your time, in college studying, this is a great place to have fun for four years and a great place for those who enjoy being a big fish in a small pond!

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Stephanie from Los Gatos, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors really do go the extra mile to make sure that I know the material and am comfortable demonstrating my knowledge on tests, in essays, and in presentations. Classes here are intense, fast-paced, and professors ask a lot of you, but that's all because the professors know that the students can put out as much as they're asked for and more.
    Am enjoying being here

    The dorm life is amazing. Living away from home is an eye-opening experience; it really helps to learn how I can live better with other people my own age and diplomatically work out problems without argument. The only downside is that in some dorms (luckily not mine) there's a bit of a party life during the weekdays. I'm not a drinker and don't attend parties, and don't mind or look down on those that do, and for the most part people are responsible and respectful. We work hard, and we play hard, but we do work hard. On the weekends, the loud parties and students are normally off campus, so campus is quiet, peaceful, and beautiful on the weekends just as it is during the weekdays. The food is absolutely amazing, with a wide variety of choices for all preferences and needs. My fellow students are, while occasionally low on sleep from studying, very happy, friendly, and accepting of anyone and everyone
    Bang for the buck

    Santa Clara University is on the pricier side of California schools, due to its Jesuit history and status as a private university. However, it's worth every dollar. San Jose State is cheaper, it's true; with about $7000 to $10000 a year, the price tag looks quite attractive. But, what they won't tell you is that at SJSU your engineering lectures can have up to 600 students (I kid you not, I attended some of them while looking for colleges), and SCU lectures are generally capped at 50. I've never had a class larger than 40 students here, and most of my classes have less than 30 students. The quality of education is so much higher than other less expensive schools that I know I'm going to be well prepared after graduation thanks to the direct, personal style of teaching encouraged here.
    Tips for prospective students

    Santa Clara, while not a party school, still does have a bit of a party life. Greek life is very present; while it's a great way to get to know people, don't get too caught up in it. Form a support network of close friends so that you have the freedom to explore, but still stay within the bounds of reason. Find someone (hopefully many someones) that you can depend on, and make sure that they can depend on you as well. Form personal relationships with your teachers, and most importantly, use office hours. They're invaluable. I speak from past experience. And, although I do advise being careful and making sure you leave time for school and good friends, it's also okay to take some time for you, enjoy yourself, and be a college student. That's what it's all about, after all; just don't overdo it and don't lose sight of that diploma. SCU and other colleges provides exemplary services to help you out for all four years, and regardless of what college you go to, you should use those to their fullest capacity.
    Great for these types of students

    If you work hard, you do well in your classes by virtue of effort, and you understand the meaning of patience and learning, then you'd do well here. SCU is not the right place for antisocial people; the community here is too close-knit at just over 5000 students. Everyone knows everyone, so if you're a moderately social person who knows how to work but also how to play and enjoy yourself, you'll succeed.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Celina from San Jose, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    We have amazing professors who put the time and effort into all of their students not only just learning their names but meeting with them one on one. We are also not impacted, so there is no problem getting the classes needed and being in control of your schedule!
    Am enjoying being here

    Great weather, awesome people, I love my residence hall! There is so much to do on and off campus! And everyone can find a place where they can fit in!
    Bang for the buck

    Santa Clara is expensive, but it is worth the money. I have friends at state schools who just aren't getting the same attention from professors or the school. We get great academic and career guidance. Also, having a Santa Clara degree will help in finding a job because of Santa Clara's great reputation!
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply early! that is the best tip I can give! it shows santa clara that you want to come here! i know people who had higher GPAs then me, but applied after I did and did not get it! Let Santa Clara know you are interested and apply early!
    Great for these types of students

    stay on top of deadlines and requirements!

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Deni from CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    All the teachers that I have had so far put in relavent personal experiences into the lectures to make them more interesting. But the limit on units makes it hard to take more classes. Very unpredictable grading system. I think the learning experience differs depending on the major.
    Am enjoying being here

    There's so many opportunities here and because the university is so small it's easier to find out about them. The weather is nice, maybe a little bit chilly sometimes, but never too cold and hardly ever too hot. People are accepting and nice. Going to mass for the first time was cool and it didn't matter what religion you are.
    Bang for the buck

    There's been renovation going on for a few years and it's continuing. The new business building has U shaped classrooms with really comfortable chairs. The gym is fantastic and there's a salt water pool. The library is new with PC/Mac computers. The campus is gorgeous: gardens with roses, fountains, and perfect green grass are everywhere. The teachers are professionals and can be reached by the students easily. There's also so many resources that are easily available.
    Tips for prospective students

    The most popular way to getting around, after walking, is skateboarding so if you can bring a long board. If you want to save money take AP Test and Community College classes before your first fall quater, if you do your research it can save you up to a year. Fill the Fafsa and Cal Grant too if it applies, the 10 hours pay off. Join ALPHA it's the best RLC : ).
    Great for these types of students

    All students that want to succeed in general.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Anna from Sunnyvale, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Santa Clara University is committed to educating their students in great depth, and it is apparent that they want to ensure that we gain a very well-rounded education. All of my professors so far seem extensively trained and knowledgeable in their areas of expertise, and as a result of their high qualifications and their effective teaching techniques, I feel that I have already learned quite a lot. Because each of my professors is so good at passing down their own knowledge, I feel that I take away worthwhile information from each one of my classes. Thus, I'm overall gaining a very well-rounded education, whether in my science classes, in English, or even in my dance class. I feel that in high school, I was able to really learn how to learn and utilize my time, and since I came to Santa Clara knowing how to manage my time and how to study, I was able to really focus on learning as much as possible. All the ideas that I was exposed to in high school have been solidified at Santa Clara thus far, and both of my science professors helped me understand the material in greater depth, as well as helping me relate what I learned to the rest of the surrounding world.
    Am enjoying being here

    Santa Clara University has an absolutely beautiful campus, and the environment is really suitable for anyone who wants to make the most of their college experience. While there are many social events happening both on and off campus, during the day, one can really focus on their studies. Whether it is on a quiet bench found all throughout campus, on the huge green lawn, or in the large library, it is guaranteed that one will find a quiet place to focus and work. In addition, everyone is open and friendly and the staff is most helpful. The workers at both the bookstore and in the Benson Center, where all the delicious food is, are always ready to assist students, as are the multiple library workers. If you get tired of sitting in your dorm room between classes, you can take a walk along campus under the warm California sun and enjoy all the tall palm trees that you are bound to come across. If you are hungry, you have several food choices, as well as several accessible stores across the street. And if you just need a place to sit and relax if it is cold outside, grab a hot chocolate from Benson and head into the Alumni Science Building and find yourself amidst several comfy couches. In short, no matter what you are looking for, whether it is a social environment, a nice place to study, an enjoyable and hospitable environment, or a beautiful and cozy campus, Santa Clara will have it for you. I am enjoying all SCU has to offer without a doubt.
    Bang for the buck

    While Santa Clara University is a private university and thus has a higher cost of attendance than state schools and other colleges, I believe its worth the money we are paying. Aside from the beautifully maintained campus, Santa Clara allows for its students to really make the most of their educational experience. They do so by providing relatively small class sizes, so that students are given more attention than classes with hundreds of kids. In this way, it is also much easier to communicate with professors, as one does not have to compete with 300 other kids to have their questions answered. The professors are always available, whether it is in person or by email, and they are extremely happy to help and in fact urge us to ask them questions. In addition, it is much easier to sign up for classes at Santa Clara than at bigger state schools because it is a private school, and thus has much more flexibility in opening up new classes. The university does all it can to ensure the students get the classes they need, though it can't always guarantee they will get the desired times. But overall, Santa Clara University provides its students with numerous resources, top quality professors, easily accessible facilities and various food choices that make it well worth the money.
    Tips for prospective students

    I would say that a big tip for prospective students is to be sure that they balance everything out, especially in the beginning. The thrill of a new environment, new friends, lots of parties, etc. often leads students to pay less attention to school than is necessary to really make a smooth transition from high school classes to college classes. I recommend that they still get involved in different activities, but that they do not get so caught up in the social frenzy that they neglect the main reason they are at Santa Clara, their education. In addition, I would suggest that they pay attention to deadlines and especially when ordering books. do it early, because the best deals go really fast. So sign up with the bookstore and get books early, because they are not cheap!
    Great for these types of students

    Santa Clara is a great school for anyone that likes a calm, small campus to focus on their studies, while also getting the benefit of a busy social scene by night. Because it is a Jesuit school, Santa Clara also has a strong foundation of compassionate values that will help make the world a better place. Thus, SCU is a great place for students looking to help make the world a better place.

  • 2 out of 13 people found this review useful.

    James from Pismo Beach, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Bang for the buck

    It's expensive, but they can be generous with financial aid.

  • Amanda from Wilton, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Santa Clara's campus has the same feeling my high school did, one of community, love, passion, and drive. Not only are the students here hard working and actively involved, they love what they do. Being surrounded by people with such passion inspires me to do my best--Santa Clara breeds leaders.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come take a tour! I guarantee you will feel safe and secure as you walk across the beautiful campus. Yes, we are a private institution but religion is not forced on you, it is a topic that is more discussed than taught in the classroom.
    Academic Rigor

    Everyone said engineering would be hard but I never really believed it. However, since the class sizes are around 20 people the teachers get to know you personally and are always available for questions.
    Dorm Life

    I live in McLaughlin and everyone said that I was going to have it the worse. However, my room has a sink and two mirrors and is plenty big for me to throw my clothes all over the place. I had a random roommate and she has become one of my closest friends, in fact, I'm driving to Seattle this summer to visit her!
    Food and Dining

    Benson is food court style, with different areas of the building selling different kinds of food. Assuming you are not picky I think Benson has plenty of options but just like everywhere else the food does get old. Thankfully, there are plenty of eateries off campus within walking distance that are reasonably priced.
    What to do for fun

    Greek life is a good option if you are all about the party scene. If you are kind of into it then you don't need to be in a sorority or a frat to go out on Friday nights. Our intramural program is also a big deal since we have almost every sport and you can play coed or all girls/boys. The Caltrain also takes you to San Fran in under an hour and buses run every 20 minutes to places like Sky High, laser tag, and the movies.
    Bang for the buck

    I believe the price of tuition is worth the education. Safety. Fun. Exceptional teachers. What more do you want for your college experience?
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Being a Ruff Rider is a must. $60 for unlimited access to tailgating and sports events for all 4 years. Also, you get free SCU gear and food at events at least once a month.
    Great for these types of students

    If you are into good weather and a great time this is the place you want to be. I also love the fact that home isn't too far away and I still get amazing weather.
    Clubs and Activities

    Like I said intramural teams are awesome. Our club sports are also really good and lots of fun to watch
    Greek Life

    About 20% of our students are involved in Greek life. Technically Santa Clara does not have Greek Life but that just means that the school itself is not funding the institutions.
    Campus Safety

    You can call for an escort at any time of the night and there are emergency phones placed all over campus. I have never felt threatened or unsafe. Also, I lost my phone and all I had to do was go to Campus Safety and someone had turned it in. That's the kind of good samaritan stuff that happens at a Jesuit college.

  • D from Honolulu, HI

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    I visited this campus and I just got this feeling it was a school designed to babysit rich kids who couldn't get into a top line school e.g. Stanford, Berkeley, etc. When I visited with my Dad, the first thing they wanted to know is if we could afford their tuition. It was kind of crass. We flew down to see them and Stanford, you'd think that would be a hint that we might be able to afford their fees. No other school we visited brought this up. Decided to go to U of San Diego instead.
    Food and Dining

    Tried the food at the food court, nice to have a choice but it wasn't that great.

  • Angelica from Milpitas, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The teachers really care for each students and devote their time to them.
    Tips for prospective students

    The tuition and food is very expensive.
    Academic Rigor

    It depends on the classes you take.
    Dorm Life

    I don't dorm but people seem to like it.
    Food and Dining

    The food is okay but expensive.
    What to do for fun

    There is a mall that is a 5-10 minute drive from school.
    Bang for the buck

    I don't think SCU is worth it as an undergraduate unless you're undecided and need one-on-one attention or you're a graduate student that's studying either law or engineering.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The library is probably the most packed place.
    Great for these types of students

    SCU is great for those that like quietness, individual attention, leadership.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are lots of clubs that meet every week. They have a wide range of activities to do.
    Campus Safety

    SCU gives off a safe vibe for me. I had a late class, and I feel fine walking in the dark by myself.

  • Amy from Sunnyvale, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    santa clara university has a beautiful campus that has the newest technology available for its students. the administrative staff is quick to respond to the questions students have and the professors are very accommodating. the only downside is that scu is a private school so the tuition is pricey and that may cause financial stress.
    Tips for prospective students

    to make sure this private school is the right one for you, make sure the area in which you are interested in studying is available and has a good network of alumni and professors who can help you meet your career goals.
    Academic Rigor

    as a graduate student, i find the classes to be challenging.
    Dorm Life

    i am a graduate student so i don't live in the dorms but they look very nice from the outside.
    Food and Dining

    there is a new dining area with really good food near the campus bookstore.
    What to do for fun

    there are a lot of activities the gym has set-up from intramural sports to fun workout classes.
    Bang for the buck

    the campus is really nicely kept and the food and events are very nicely put together but it all comes from the high tuition costs.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    there is a church in the middle of campus and a couple of energy-efficient, solar-powered homes on the way to the gym.
    Great for these types of students

    students who want to go into law, students who want to go into teaching, and students who want to go into business.
    Clubs and Activities

    the gym and the clubs have many classes and activities to offer to students.
    Greek Life

    i am not involved in greek life.
    Campus Safety

    the campus seems to be very safe and there are not many disturbances that have been reported since i have been a student at scu.

  • Raymond from San Jose, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    santa clara university is a school where staff and faculty care about you. the school focuses on enriching both the mind and spirit. in any class you take, you will learn the course material along with the impact that ethical decision-making has in the field.
    Tips for prospective students

    take advantage of the office hours that your professors offer you. they can be a great help and, should you need them, can be a system of support. they are there to help you as a student and as a person.
    Academic Rigor

    as with everything, you can choose how much effort to put into your studies and that will reflect your performance. if you want to do well in your courses, learn quickly to manage your time properly.
    Dorm Life

    at scu, we don't have dorms, we have residential learning communities (rlcs) because each building is a community in itself. every rlc has its own values, special events, and atmosphere when you enter. no matter what, there is an rlc where you will feel most comfortably fits your personality.
    Food and Dining

    the dining commons offers plenty of options, and rotates their menus often. scu strives to make responsible choices even when making food. they choose ingredients from reliable sources that promote sustainabe and ethical eating. of course, eating at the same place can get boring. santa clara has many restaurants located just outside of scu within walking distance.
    What to do for fun

    whether it's attending a social hosted by an rlc, or a lecture by esteemed professors, there is always something to do at santa clara university. scu is located across from a vta bus station, and is nearby a train station, making any recreational destination possible.
    Great for these types of students

    -social
    -desire small class sizes
    -want to build relationships both with peers and faculty
    -like teamwork
    Clubs and Activities

    scu promotes diversity, and so has a multitude of ethnic clubs that are open to all. they even have a multi-cultural center (commonly known as the mcc) built specifically for these clubs to meet.
    sccap (santa clara community action program) is a student-run volunteer organization that regularly works with over 20 different community service programs within the bay area.
    you can also find major-specific clubs that provide resources such as internship and job fairs just for your major.

  • Anonymous

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I attended a boring class at Santa Clara, and found it quite interesting. I learned quite a bit just in one class.
    Will enjoy being here

    Location is beautiful. The weather is amazing. The students are intelligent and extremely friendly. What's not to love?
    Bang for the buck

    It's a bit pricey, but it's a private school in California.

  • Adam from Santee, CA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The academics are very rigorous and with hard work, it is possible to do very well. The faculty is also very involved in your academic life, and will support you as you work towards your major.
    Will enjoy being here

    The atmosphere of the school is bright, warm, and inviting. Everywhere you look on campus you see a smiling face, and everyone is so happy to be there. The school has a very laid back, mellow feel, allowing for fun times and serious learning.
    Bang for the buck

    The university is very expensive for undergrads (about $50000/yr) but with that you are receiving an education that is invaluable and an experience you will cherish for the rest of your life. Also, it can be a challenge to get financial aid, but the office there will do their best to help you out.
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply early, visit campus, spend the night with someone you know who goes there. That's what sold it for me.
    Great for these types of students

    serious academic kids, laid back mellow kids, and everyone in between

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