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University of California-Los Angeles vs University of California-San Diego

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University of California-Los Angeles

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University of California-San Diego

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric University of California-Los Angeles University of California-San Diego Winner
Acceptance Rate 9% 25% University of California-Los Angeles
Graduation Rate 93% 88% University of California-Los Angeles
Avg Earnings (5yr) $59,063 $65,669 University of California-San Diego
Median Debt $14,000 $15,500 University of California-Los Angeles
Tuition (In-State) $13,747 $15,265 University of California-Los Angeles
Retention Rate 97% 94% University of California-Los Angeles
Financial Aid 21% 24% University of California-San Diego

Comparison Analysis

Graduates of the University of California-San Diego earn more than those of University of California-Los Angeles, with median earnings of $65,669 compared to $59,063. However, UCLA has a higher graduation rate at 92.6% versus UCSD's 87.7%. UCLA also has a much lower acceptance rate at 8.7% compared to UCSD's 24.5%.

UCSD's tuition is higher at $15,265 compared to UCLA's $13,747. Considering both earnings and tuition, UCSD graduates earn more, but also pay more for their education. UCLA has a higher graduation rate and is more selective.

A prospective student might choose UCLA if they prioritize a higher graduation rate and a more selective environment, while a student prioritizing higher earnings might choose UCSD. The overall value proposition depends on individual priorities, with both schools offering strong outcomes.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major University of California-Los Angeles Earnings University of California-San Diego Earnings Difference
Economics $62,091 $51,192 21% favor University of California-Los Angeles
Political Science and Government $34,392 $33,345 3% favor University of California-Los Angeles
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $169,099 $0
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $169,099 $60,973 177% favor University of California-Los Angeles
Sociology $34,121 $36,464 7% favor University of California-San Diego
Biology, General $28,242 $34,504 22% favor University of California-San Diego
Economics $62,091 $0
Economics $62,091 $0
Psychology, General $30,614 $29,144 5% favor University of California-Los Angeles
Cognitive Science $53,962 $39,839 35% favor University of California-Los Angeles

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location Los Angeles, CA
Setting City
Students 33,040
Type Public
Location La Jolla, CA
Setting City
Students 33,787

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

University of California-Los Angeles has median earnings of $59,063 and tuition of $13,747. University of California-San Diego has median earnings of $65,669 and tuition of $15,265. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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