Westmont College

Westmont College is a private, nonprofit Christian college in the hills above Santa Barbara. Its main offering is a residential undergraduate education built around the liberal arts: students take courses across disciplines while completing a major, and the college describes close faculty advising and undergraduate research as central parts of that experience. This setting is a good fit for students who want a small campus and faith-informed community alongside broad academic study; it is important to consider whether required religious life and the college’s Christian commitments suit your expectations.

Majors and academic pathways

Westmont’s departments span the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and professional preparation. Majors include biology, chemistry, computer science, data analytics, economics and business, engineering, environmental studies, kinesiology, nursing, political science, psychology and religious studies, among others. Some programs offer more than one degree route, and nursing includes an accelerated option for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. Review prerequisites, course sequences and the format of the exact program before applying; the official majors and programs directory has the full current list.

Westmont’s residential model makes campus housing and meal costs a substantial part of the budget. For 2026–27, the college lists tuition of $56,630 and direct billed costs of $76,300 for a student living on campus, including standard fees, housing and a meal plan. Its estimated total cost of attendance, including books and personal expenses, is $79,300. These are published planning figures before aid; the college notes that individual net cost depends on eligibility and the aid package. Students approved to live off campus should use the separate estimate and confirm the rules before signing a lease.

Scholarships and financial aid

Westmont says 95% of students receive some form of financial aid. It lists academic scholarships of $15,000–$25,000 per year for qualifying students, automatically awarded upon admission, and also offers need-based grants, talent awards, student employment and other assistance. The listed scholarship range is not a promise that every applicant will qualify or that it will cover the full cost. File the FAFSA when eligible and compare the written aid offer with tuition, housing, meals and travel. The college’s cost and aid page includes current figures and a net-price calculator.

Campus, location and admissions

Main campus: 955 La Paz Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108; general information: (805) 565-6000. Main campus office hours are listed as Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday are closed. Westmont’s main academic campus is at this address; confirm event, admissions-visit and department appointments before traveling, since their schedules may differ from general office hours.

First-year and transfer applicants should check the college’s current deadlines, required records and any program-specific materials. Students considering nursing or another selective pathway should ask whether admission to the college also admits them to that program, what prerequisites are required and when clinical or field placements begin. Use Westmont’s admissions site to start an application or arrange a campus visit.

What student comments can help you assess

Public student reviews often praise the small classes, faculty relationships, scenic campus and sense of community. Other comments raise questions about tuition, housing, dining and how well the campus culture fits students with different backgrounds or expectations. These accounts vary by person and cohort, so use them as prompts for a visit: ask current students about advising access, housing availability, meal options and the practical place of faith in everyday campus life. A candid conversation can help you decide whether Westmont’s close-knit, explicitly Christian environment is the right one for you.