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Boston University vs University of California-Berkeley

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

7
Boston Wins
17
Tied / N/A
22
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Far West
18,248
Enrollment
33,068
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
11%
1480
SAT Average
N/A
33
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1420-1530
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,102
In-State Tuition
$16,347
$68,102
Out-of-State Tuition
$50,547
$24,402
Average Net Price
$13,481
$9,500
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$5,311
$9,342
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,501
$11,778
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,693
$47,504
Net Price ($110K+)
$34,529
19%
Pell Grant Rate
29%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
93%
95%
Retention Rate
97%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
70%
$16,623
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$21,246
17%
First-Gen Students
35%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
32%
White
20%
11%
Hispanic
22%
6%
Black
2%
21%
Asian
35%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.77

Outcomes

$65,655
Earnings (6yr)
$74,919
$73,661
Earnings (8yr)
$84,865
$83,238
Earnings (10yr)
$92,446
$23,250
Median Debt
$13,000
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
81%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

201.75%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5043.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
400.0%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$126,800
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.82
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.01
9.7%
Volunteering Rate
12.2%

Research (Times HE)

#59
World Rank
N/A
53.6
Teaching Score
N/A
51.9
Research Score
N/A
91.4
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Boston University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 89% grad $83,238 earnings $24,402 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Boston University is a great fit for motivated students who are ready to engage with a vibrant urban campus. It's an appealing choice for those interested in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Communications, Biology & Biomedical, or Computer Science & IT. The school’s diverse offerings attract students who are eager to explore various disciplines and prepare for dynamic careers.

After graduation, students from Boston University can expect to earn an impressive average of $83,238 within a decade. This means graduates are stepping into solid financial footing relatively quickly, which is encouraging for those considering their return on investment. With a graduation rate of 89%, it shows that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees, paving the way for upward mobility in their careers.

When it comes to the practical side of financing your education, the net price after aid stands at approximately $24,402, which is manageable for many families. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, a figure that many could navigate effectively post-graduation. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are ready to take advantage of Boston’s resources and connections, ultimately setting themselves up for successful futures.

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · Public

11% accept 93% grad $92,446 earnings $13,481 net

The University of California-Berkeley has a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. This high rate indicates strong student support and a commitment to student success. With an acceptance rate of just 11%, selectivity is high, making it a competitive choice for prospective students.

According to Chetty/Opportunity Insights data, UC Berkeley is a strong performer in economic mobility. While specific mobility rates are not provided, the school is known for propelling graduates into high-earning careers. The median earnings for graduates after ten years is an impressive $92,446, suggesting substantial return on investment for students.

The net price of attendance is around $13,481, and the median debt for graduates is $13,000. This manageable debt level, combined with high earning potential, makes UC Berkeley an attractive option for students. Those who thrive here typically have strong academic backgrounds, are motivated, and are seeking opportunities in fields like Computer Science, Engineering, and Social Sciences.

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