University of California-Davis vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

Davis, CA — Madison, WI

Metric
University of California-Davis
Davis, CA
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Location Davis, CA Madison, WI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 32,253 36,902
Acceptance Rate 41.8% 45.2%
SAT Average 1,427
In-State Tuition $16,774 $11,603
Out-of-State Tuition $50,974 $42,103
Avg Net Price $14,741 $17,354
Median Debt at Graduation $13,000 $20,484
4-Year Graduation Rate 85.4% 89.4%
Retention Rate 92.8% 96.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $58,461 $61,275
Median Earnings (10 yr) $80,838 $73,792
Loan Repayment Rate 804400.0% 729100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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University of California-Davis
Davis, CA
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Davis and University of Wisconsin-Madison compare?
University of California-Davis (Davis, CA) has an acceptance rate of 41.8%, in-state tuition of $16,774, and median 10-year earnings of $80,838. University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Davis or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
University of California-Davis graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $80,838 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Davis or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Davis is the more affordable option at $14,741 per year versus $17,354.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 85.4%.

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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