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University of California-San Diego vs University of Virginia-Main Campus

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

18
University Wins
7
Tied / N/A
13
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Far West
Region
Southeast
34,948
Enrollment
17,597
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

27%
Acceptance Rate
17%
N/A
SAT Average
1480
N/A
ACT Midpoint
34
N/A
SAT Range
1410-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,758
In-State Tuition
$21,803
$50,958
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,512
$12,470
Average Net Price
$21,565
$7,525
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,174
$8,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,696
$9,942
Net Price ($48-75K)
$13,283
$28,785
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,402
34%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
21%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
95%
94%
Retention Rate
98%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$19,117
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,428
40%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

52%
Female
55%
17%
White
49%
27%
Hispanic
8%
2%
Black
8%
35%
Asian
20%
0.76
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$65,669
Earnings (6yr)
$72,359
$77,893
Earnings (8yr)
$80,156
$84,943
Earnings (10yr)
$86,863
$15,500
Median Debt
$17,500
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
73%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Capital

1.83
Economic Connectedness
1.82
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
12.1%
Volunteering Rate
8.6%

The Overviews

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.

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

17% accept 95% grad $86,863 earnings $21,565 net

With an acceptance rate of just 17%, the University of Virginia-Main Campus attracts students who are ready for an academically rigorous environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in a wide range of disciplines, particularly in humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and computer science. Students here are not just looking for a degree; they’re aiming for a transformative college experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

After graduation, students typically see solid returns on their investment. With a median earning of $86,863 ten years post-graduation, many graduates find themselves in a stable financial position. The affordable net price of $21,565 means that with careful planning and support, students can graduate with manageable debt, averaging around $17,500. This financial outlook is encouraging, especially for those who may worry about student loans impacting their future.

Ultimately, the practical aspects of attending UVA-Main Campus play a crucial role in student success. With a supportive environment, it’s a place where driven students can thrive, particularly those who are proactive about taking advantage of the resources available. This community fosters not just academic excellence but also personal growth, making it a smart choice for those ready to engage deeply in their education.

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