Maybe reading too much into it but… the email from the counselor that started the thread sounds more promising than the email below:
Admission decisions will be released on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 3 p.m. PST on the UCSB Applicant Status portal.
Have you activated your portal? If not, you can use your Perm number (xxxxxxx) or UC Application ID number to access your portal. Watch our short portal tutorial webinar for instructions.
At this time, please do not send transcripts, changes in class schedules or letters of recommendation. We will specifically request documents that are needed. We will request academic transcripts of most international applicants, but we will not request official documents for domestic applicants until after a student is admitted.
UC Santa Barbara
Office of Admissions
1210 Cheadle Hall
Santa Barbara, CA 93106-2014