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University of California-Berkeley vs University of California-San Diego

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

20
University Wins
6
Tied / N/A
9
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Far West
Region
Far West
33,068
Enrollment
34,948
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
27%

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,347
In-State Tuition
$16,758
$50,547
Out-of-State Tuition
$50,958
$13,481
Average Net Price
$12,470
$5,311
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,525
$6,501
Net Price ($30-48K)
$8,155
$9,693
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,942
$34,529
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,785
29%
Pell Grant Rate
34%
17%
Federal Loan Rate
21%

Academics

93%
Graduation Rate
87%
97%
Retention Rate
94%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$21,246
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$19,117
35%
First-Gen Students
40%

Student Body

55%
Female
52%
20%
White
17%
22%
Hispanic
27%
2%
Black
2%
35%
Asian
35%
0.77
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$74,919
Earnings (6yr)
$65,669
$84,865
Earnings (8yr)
$77,893
$92,446
Earnings (10yr)
$84,943
$13,000
Median Debt
$15,500
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
76%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
12.2%
Volunteering Rate
12.1%

The Overviews

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.

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · Public

27% accept 87% grad $84,943 earnings $12,470 net

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.

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