University of California-San Diego vs Dartmouth College

La Jolla, CA — Hanover, NH

Metric
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH
Location La Jolla, CA Hanover, NH
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 34,948 4,541
Acceptance Rate 26.7% 5.4%
SAT Average 1,534
In-State Tuition $16,758 $68,268
Out-of-State Tuition $50,958 $68,268
Avg Net Price $12,470 $29,519
Median Debt at Graduation $15,500 $17,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.8% 95.8%
Retention Rate 94.0% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $65,669 $82,541
Median Earnings (10 yr) $84,943 $97,434
Loan Repayment Rate 802100.0% 57600.0%

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

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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-San Diego and Dartmouth College compare?
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. Dartmouth College (Hanover, NH) has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, in-state tuition of $68,268, and median 10-year earnings of $97,434.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-San Diego or Dartmouth College?
Dartmouth College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,434 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-San Diego or Dartmouth College?
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 $29,519.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Dartmouth College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.8% 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