Grand Valley State University vs University of California-Santa Barbara
Allendale, MI — Santa Barbara, CA
| Metric | Grand Valley State University Allendale, MI | University of California-Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Allendale, MI | Santa Barbara, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 18,854 | 23,113 |
| Acceptance Rate | 83.0% | 33.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,074 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $15,140 | $16,414 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $21,548 | $50,614 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,317 | $16,109 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,500 | $13,993 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 67.8% | 84.3% |
| Retention Rate | 76.3% | 93.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $47,840 | $56,852 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $56,118 | $74,915 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 975600.0% | 596200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
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University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Grand Valley State University and University of California-Santa Barbara compare?▼
Grand Valley State University (Allendale, MI) has an acceptance rate of 83.0%, in-state tuition of $15,140, and median 10-year earnings of $56,118. University of California-Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara, CA) has an acceptance rate of 33.0%, in-state tuition of $16,414, and median 10-year earnings of $74,915.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Grand Valley State University or University of California-Santa Barbara?▼
University of California-Santa Barbara graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $74,915 vs $56,118. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Grand Valley State University or University of California-Santa Barbara?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Santa Barbara is the more affordable option at $16,109 per year versus $16,317.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-Santa Barbara has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 84.3% vs 67.8%.
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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