Northwestern University vs University of California-San Diego
Evanston, IL — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 802100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and University of California-San Diego compare?▼
Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363. 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, Northwestern University or University of California-San Diego?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern 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 $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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