Ball State University vs University of California-Merced

Muncie, IN — Merced, CA

Metric
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
University of California-Merced
Merced, CA
Location Muncie, IN Merced, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 13,988 8,372
Acceptance Rate 85.5% 90.5%
SAT Average 1,160
In-State Tuition $11,082 $15,623
Out-of-State Tuition $29,630 $49,823
Avg Net Price $14,940 $11,983
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $16,144
4-Year Graduation Rate 62.8% 68.9%
Retention Rate 77.7% 82.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $44,394 $48,475
Median Earnings (10 yr) $51,833 $64,368
Loan Repayment Rate 762200.0% 142300.0%

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

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Ball State University
Muncie, IN
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University of California-Merced
Merced, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ball State University and University of California-Merced compare?
Ball State University (Muncie, IN) has an acceptance rate of 85.5%, in-state tuition of $11,082, and median 10-year earnings of $51,833. University of California-Merced (Merced, CA) has an acceptance rate of 90.5%, in-state tuition of $15,623, and median 10-year earnings of $64,368.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Ball State University or University of California-Merced?
University of California-Merced graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,368 vs $51,833. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Ball State University or University of California-Merced?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Merced is the more affordable option at $11,983 per year versus $14,940.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Merced has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 68.9% vs 62.8%.

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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