University of California-Santa Cruz vs University of Kansas

Santa Cruz, CA — Lawrence, KS

Metric
University of California-Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS
Location Santa Cruz, CA Lawrence, KS
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 17,940 21,217
Acceptance Rate 65.8% 93.5%
SAT Average 1,190
In-State Tuition $16,005 $12,102
Out-of-State Tuition $50,205 $30,432
Avg Net Price $17,890 $18,059
Median Debt at Graduation $16,666 $21,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 74.8% 68.8%
Retention Rate 87.9% 86.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $49,716 $51,217
Median Earnings (10 yr) $68,396 $61,945
Loan Repayment Rate 552700.0% 702900.0%

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

Full Profile
University of California-Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Santa Cruz and University of Kansas compare?
University of California-Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz, CA) has an acceptance rate of 65.8%, in-state tuition of $16,005, and median 10-year earnings of $68,396. University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS) has an acceptance rate of 93.5%, in-state tuition of $12,102, and median 10-year earnings of $61,945.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Kansas?
University of California-Santa Cruz graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $68,396 vs $61,945. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Kansas?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Santa Cruz is the more affordable option at $17,890 per year versus $18,059.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Santa Cruz has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 74.8% vs 68.8%.

More Comparisons

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