College Comparison
Lehigh University vs UC Irvine: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
School
UC Irvine
Irvine, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Lehigh | UC Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 29.3% | 25.6%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1350–1490wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 31–33 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,180 | $45,014wins |
| Avg Net Price | $33,549 | $12,840wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $105,584wins | $80,735 |
| Graduation Rate | 89.2%wins | 86.0% |
| Retention Rate | 92.7% | 93.8%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 5,803 | 29,494wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UC Irvine edges out Lehigh on 5 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.
Lehigh Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1350–1490
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $105,584
- ✓Graduation Rate: 89.2%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1
UC Irvine Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 25.6%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,840
- ✓Retention Rate: 93.8%
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