Western Illinois University vs University of California-San Diego
Macomb, IL — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | Western Illinois University Macomb, IL | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Macomb, IL | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 4,410 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 71.2% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $15,264 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $15,264 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $12,937 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,251 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 45.0% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 61.4% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $43,057 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $54,163 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 570700.0% | 802100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Illinois University and University of California-San Diego compare?▼
Western Illinois University (Macomb, IL) has an acceptance rate of 71.2%, in-state tuition of $15,264, and median 10-year earnings of $54,163. 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, Western Illinois University 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 $54,163. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Illinois University 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 $12,937.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% vs 45.0%.
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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