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Colleges / CA / La Jolla
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University of California-San Diego

Public La Jolla, CA · Urban · Far West · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
87%
Graduation Rate
$84,943
Earnings (10yr)
$12,470
Net Price
27%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

The University of California-San Diego has an impressive graduation rate of 87%. This high percentage reflects the school's commitment to student success and academic support. It stands out in California's competitive higher education landscape, making it an attractive option for many students.

According to the Chetty/Opportunity Insights data, UC San Diego graduates have a 10-year earning potential of $84,943. This earning figure positions the university as a strong pathway for upward mobility, especially for students from lower-income backgrounds. The data indicates that a significant portion of graduates experience substantial economic advancement post-graduation.

Practical considerations are also favorable. The net price for attending UC San Diego is $12,470, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other institutions. Graduates leave with a median debt of $15,500, which is manageable given their earning potential. Students who thrive here often pursue degrees in Biology, Engineering, Social Sciences, Psychology, and Computer Science, fields that are in high demand in today's job market.

Rankings

How University Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation87%Earnings 10yr$85KNet Price$12KRetention94%Median Debt$16KPell Grant Rate34%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$8K$0-30K$8K$30-48K$10K$48-75K$29K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,758
In-State Tuition
$50,958
Out-of-State
$12,470
Avg Net Price
$15,500
Median Debt
34%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$7,525
Family Income $0–$30K
$8,155
Family Income $30K–$48K
$9,942
Family Income $48K–$75K
$28,785
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$65,669
6 Years After Entry
$77,893
8 Years
$84,943
10 Years
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
73%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$65,669 6yr $77,893 8yr $84,943 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.83
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.00
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
12.1%
Volunteering Rate
0.98
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 27%
Retention Rate 94%
Full-Time Faculty 88%
Faculty Salary (mo) $19,117
Diversity Index 0.76
First-Gen Students 40%

Top Programs

Biology & Biomedical 21%
Engineering 12%
Social Sciences 9%
Psychology 9%
Computer Science & IT 7%
Business & Marketing 5%
Mathematics & Statistics 4%
Health Professions 4%