Harvard University vs University of California-San Diego
Cambridge, MA — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | Harvard University Cambridge, MA | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cambridge, MA | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 7,601 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 3.6% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $61,676 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $61,676 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,066 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 97.5% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 98.3% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $99,572 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 42000.0% | 802100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Harvard University and University of California-San Diego compare?▼
Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $61,676, and median 10-year earnings of $101,817. 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, Harvard University or University of California-San Diego?▼
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Harvard 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 $19,066.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% vs 86.8%.
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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