University of California-Santa Barbara vs American University
Santa Barbara, CA — Washington, DC
| Metric | University of California-Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Santa Barbara, CA | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 23,113 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 33.0% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,414 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $50,614 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,109 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,993 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 84.3% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 93.0% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $56,852 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $74,915 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 596200.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Santa Barbara and American University compare?▼
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. American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Santa Barbara or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $74,915. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Santa Barbara or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Santa Barbara is the more affordable option at $16,109 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-Santa Barbara has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 84.3% vs 77.0%.
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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