College Comparison
Stanford University vs UC San Diego: 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 San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Stanford | UC San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.9%wins | 24.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,484 | $46,042wins |
| Avg Net Price | $12,136 | $11,750wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $124,080wins | $84,943 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.8%wins | 87.6% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 93.9% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,841 | 33,787wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Stanford edges out UC San Diego on 6 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $124,080
- ✓Graduation Rate: 92.8%
UC San Diego Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $46,042
- ✓Avg Net Price: $11,750
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,787
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