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College Comparison

Brown University vs UC San Diego: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Brown University

Providence, RI

School

UC San Diego

La Jolla, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricBrownUC San Diego
Acceptance Rate5.2%wins24.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$68,230$46,042wins
Avg Net Price$26,572$11,750wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$93,487wins$84,943
Graduation Rate96.0%wins87.6%
Retention Rate98.7%wins93.9%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins19:1
Total Enrollment7,27333,787wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Brown edges out UC San Diego on 6 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.

Brown Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 5.2%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $93,487
  • Graduation Rate: 96.0%

UC San Diego Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $46,042
  • Avg Net Price: $11,750
  • Total Enrollment: 33,787

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