Michigan State University vs University of California-San Diego
East Lansing, MI — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Lansing, MI | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 40,922 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 84.8% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,269 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $16,458 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,842 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,680 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 81.4% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 90.0% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,084 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $67,253 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 1161300.0% | 802100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Michigan State University and University of California-San Diego compare?▼
Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.8%, in-state tuition of $16,458, and median 10-year earnings of $67,253. 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, Michigan State 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 $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State 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 $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% vs 81.4%.
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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