Auburn University vs University of California-San Diego

Auburn, AL — La Jolla, CA

Metric
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Location Auburn, AL La Jolla, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 26,816 34,948
Acceptance Rate 45.9% 26.7%
SAT Average 1,345
In-State Tuition $12,890 $16,758
Out-of-State Tuition $34,922 $50,958
Avg Net Price $24,323 $12,470
Median Debt at Graduation $21,000 $15,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.6% 86.8%
Retention Rate 94.8% 94.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $54,629 $65,669
Median Earnings (10 yr) $65,337 $84,943
Loan Repayment Rate 527100.0% 802100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Auburn University
Auburn, AL
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Auburn University and University of California-San Diego compare?
Auburn University (Auburn, AL) has an acceptance rate of 45.9%, in-state tuition of $12,890, and median 10-year earnings of $65,337. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) has an acceptance rate of 26.7%, in-state tuition of $16,758, and median 10-year earnings of $84,943.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Auburn University or University of California-San Diego?
University of California-San Diego graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $84,943 vs $65,337. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Auburn University or University of California-San Diego?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-San Diego is the more affordable option at $12,470 per year versus $24,323.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% vs 80.6%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025