University of Utah vs University of California-San Diego

Salt Lake City, UT — La Jolla, CA

Metric
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Location Salt Lake City, UT La Jolla, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 27,264 34,948
Acceptance Rate 86.0% 26.7%
SAT Average 1,257
In-State Tuition $9,620 $16,758
Out-of-State Tuition $30,860 $50,958
Avg Net Price $16,200 $12,470
Median Debt at Graduation $19,000 $15,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 64.5% 86.8%
Retention Rate 86.2% 94.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,239 $65,669
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,170 $84,943
Loan Repayment Rate 762200.0% 802100.0%

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

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University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Utah and University of California-San Diego compare?
University of Utah (Salt Lake City, UT) has an acceptance rate of 86.0%, in-state tuition of $9,620, and median 10-year earnings of $67,170. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Utah or University of California-San Diego?
University of California-San Diego graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $84,943 vs $67,170. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Utah or University of California-San Diego?
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 $16,200.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% vs 64.5%.

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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