College Comparison
Columbia University vs UC Berkeley: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
UC Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | UC Berkeley |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 11.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $45,627wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148 | $14,979wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491wins | $92,446 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0%wins | 92.9% |
| Retention Rate | 97.2%wins | 96.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899 | 33,073wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out UC Berkeley 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.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1570
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,491
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.0%
UC Berkeley Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,627
- ✓Avg Net Price: $14,979
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,073
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