College Comparison
Stanford University vs UC Davis: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
School
UC Davis
Davis, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Stanford | UC Davis |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.9%wins | 41.6% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,484 | $46,024wins |
| Avg Net Price | $12,136wins | $15,288 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $124,080wins | $80,838 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.8%wins | 85.1% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 93.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 21:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,841 | 31,777wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Stanford edges out UC Davis 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.
Stanford Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,136
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $124,080
UC Davis Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $46,024
- ✓Total Enrollment: 31,777
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