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College Comparison

Yale 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

Yale University

New Haven, CT

School

UCLA

Los Angeles, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricYaleUCLA
Acceptance Rate4.5%wins8.7%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$64,700$44,524wins
Avg Net Price$27,818$14,013wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$100,533wins$82,511
Graduation Rate96.3%wins92.7%
Retention Rate99.0%wins96.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment6,81133,040wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Yale edges out UCLA 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.

Yale Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1580
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $100,533
  • Graduation Rate: 96.3%

UCLA Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $44,524
  • Avg Net Price: $14,013
  • Total Enrollment: 33,040

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