College Comparison
Lehigh University vs UC Santa Barbara: 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 Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Lehigh | UC Santa Barbara |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 29.3% | 27.8%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1350–1490wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 31–33 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,180 | $45,742wins |
| Avg Net Price | $33,549 | $13,825wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $105,584wins | $74,915 |
| Graduation Rate | 89.2%wins | 85.3% |
| Retention Rate | 92.7%wins | 91.9% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1wins | 17:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 5,803 | 23,205wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Lehigh edges out UC Santa Barbara 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%
- ✓Retention Rate: 92.7%
UC Santa Barbara Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 27.8%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,742
- ✓Avg Net Price: $13,825
- ✓Total Enrollment: 23,205
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.