Boston University vs University of California-Los Angeles

Boston, MA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Boston University
Boston, MA
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Location Boston, MA Los Angeles, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 18,248 33,475
Acceptance Rate 11.1% 9.0%
SAT Average 1,480
In-State Tuition $68,102 $15,203
Out-of-State Tuition $68,102 $49,403
Avg Net Price $24,402 $12,548
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.3% 92.6%
Retention Rate 94.7% 97.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $65,655 $59,063
Median Earnings (10 yr) $83,238 $82,511
Loan Repayment Rate 471400.0% 748300.0%

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

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Boston University
Boston, MA
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University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Boston University and University of California-Los Angeles compare?
Boston University (Boston, MA) has an acceptance rate of 11.1%, in-state tuition of $68,102, and median 10-year earnings of $83,238. University of California-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.0%, in-state tuition of $15,203, and median 10-year earnings of $82,511.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Boston University or University of California-Los Angeles?
Boston University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $83,238 vs $82,511. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Boston University or University of California-Los Angeles?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $12,548 per year versus $24,402.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Los Angeles has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 92.6% vs 89.3%.

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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