George Mason University vs University of California-San Diego
Fairfax, VA — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | George Mason University Fairfax, VA | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Fairfax, VA | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 27,752 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 87.5% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,274 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $14,220 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $38,688 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,915 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 68.6% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 86.0% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $60,536 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $76,343 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 731900.0% | 802100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do George Mason University and University of California-San Diego compare?▼
George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343. 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, George Mason 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 $76,343. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, George Mason 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 $17,915.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% vs 68.6%.
More Comparisons
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