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College Comparison

Rice University vs UCLA: Which is Better?

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

School

Rice University

Houston, TX

School

UCLA

Los Angeles, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricRiceUCLA
Acceptance Rate7.9%wins8.7%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–36N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$58,128$44,524wins
Avg Net Price$12,640wins$14,013
Median Earnings (10 yr)$89,718wins$82,511
Graduation Rate95.7%wins92.7%
Retention Rate97.6%wins96.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment4,56233,040wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Rice edges out UCLA on 7 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.

Rice Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 7.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
  • Avg Net Price: $12,640
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $89,718

UCLA Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $44,524
  • Total Enrollment: 33,040

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