University of California-San Diego vs Duke University

La Jolla, CA — Durham, NC

Metric
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location La Jolla, CA Durham, NC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 34,948 6,442
Acceptance Rate 26.7% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,548
In-State Tuition $16,758 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $50,958 $68,758
Avg Net Price $12,470 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $15,500 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.8% 96.3%
Retention Rate 94.0% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $65,669 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $84,943 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 802100.0% 124100.0%

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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Duke University
Durham, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-San Diego and Duke University 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. Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-San Diego or Duke University?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-San Diego or Duke University?
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 $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% 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