University of California-San Diego vs Stanford University
La Jolla, CA — Stanford, CA
| Metric | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA | Stanford University Stanford, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | La Jolla, CA | Stanford, CA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 34,948 | 7,554 |
| Acceptance Rate | 26.7% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,758 | $65,910 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $50,958 | $65,910 |
| Avg Net Price | $12,470 | $13,807 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,500 | $12,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 86.8% | 92.4% |
| Retention Rate | 94.0% | 98.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $65,669 | $102,887 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $84,943 | $124,080 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 802100.0% | 62500.0% |
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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Stanford University
Stanford, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-San Diego and Stanford 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. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-San Diego or Stanford University?▼
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-San Diego or Stanford 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 $13,807.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Stanford University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 92.4% 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