College Comparison
Rutgers 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
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ
School
UC Irvine
Irvine, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Rutgers | UC Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 65.3% | 25.6%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1270–1480wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 28–33 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $36,001wins | $45,014 |
| Avg Net Price | $23,519 | $12,840wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $74,479 | $80,735wins |
| Graduation Rate | 85.0% | 86.0%wins |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 93.8%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 15:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 36,357wins | 29,494 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UC Irvine edges out Rutgers 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.
Rutgers Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1270–1480
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $36,001
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 15:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 36,357
UC Irvine Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 25.6%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,840
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $80,735
- ✓Graduation Rate: 86.0%
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