In terms of partying, both Tulane and UCSB are pretty major party schools. They both always rank within the top 10 in the country in terms of that, so I wouldn’t base your decision on that! That said, UCSB is generally ranked higher than Tulane academically (there might be differences in majors but in general that’s the case). Housing: UCSB has a 2x2 program where if you live on campus for 2 years, you’re guaranteed housing for the other 2 as well, so I’d look into that if housing is a concern for you. Definitely not difficult to get around SB without a car!