College Comparison
University of Rochester 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
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY
School
UC Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | U of Rochester | UC Santa Barbara |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 35.9% | 27.8%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1400–1540wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 31–34 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $64,348 | $45,742wins |
| Avg Net Price | $30,248 | $13,825wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $79,042wins | $74,915 |
| Graduation Rate | 84.5% | 85.3%wins |
| Retention Rate | 92.5%wins | 91.9% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 9:1wins | 17:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 6,488 | 23,205wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UC Santa Barbara edges out U of Rochester 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.
U of Rochester Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1400–1540
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $79,042
- ✓Retention Rate: 92.5%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 9:1
UC Santa Barbara Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 27.8%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,742
- ✓Avg Net Price: $13,825
- ✓Graduation Rate: 85.3%
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