Princeton University vs University of California-Santa Barbara
Princeton, NJ — Santa Barbara, CA
| Metric | Princeton University Princeton, NJ | University of California-Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Princeton, NJ | Santa Barbara, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 5,709 | 23,113 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4.6% | 33.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $62,688 | $16,414 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $62,688 | $50,614 |
| Avg Net Price | $6,128 | $16,109 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,320 | $13,993 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 97.4% | 84.3% |
| Retention Rate | 98.4% | 93.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $87,815 | $56,852 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $110,066 | $74,915 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 14700.0% | 596200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
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University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Princeton University and University of California-Santa Barbara compare?▼
Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, in-state tuition of $62,688, and median 10-year earnings of $110,066. 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, Princeton University or University of California-Santa Barbara?▼
Princeton University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $110,066 vs $74,915. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Princeton University or University of California-Santa Barbara?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Princeton University is the more affordable option at $6,128 per year versus $16,109.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Princeton University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.4% vs 84.3%.
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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