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University of California-San Diego vs Washington and Lee University

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

15
University Wins
14
Tied / N/A
13
Washington Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
Far West
Region
Southeast
34,948
Enrollment
1,881
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

27%
Acceptance Rate
14%
N/A
SAT Average
1498
N/A
ACT Midpoint
34
N/A
SAT Range
1430-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,758
In-State Tuition
$68,045
$50,958
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,045
$12,470
Average Net Price
$23,781
$7,525
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-1,777
$8,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$75
$9,942
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,497
$28,785
Net Price ($110K+)
$40,646
34%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
21%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
94%
94%
Retention Rate
97%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$19,117
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,155
40%
First-Gen Students
N/A

Student Body

52%
Female
44%
17%
White
68%
27%
Hispanic
9%
2%
Black
5%
35%
Asian
5%
0.76
Diversity Index
0.52

Outcomes

$65,669
Earnings (6yr)
$76,516
$77,893
Earnings (8yr)
$89,772
$84,943
Earnings (10yr)
$94,810
$15,500
Median Debt
$19,500
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
73%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
57.09%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5102.3%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
111.9%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$226,700

Social Capital

1.83
Economic Connectedness
1.82
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.00
12.1%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

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.

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 94% grad $94,810 earnings $23,781 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Washington and Lee University draws students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply in their studies. This private institution, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Physical Sciences. If you’re looking for a place that encourages critical thinking and a close-knit community, this might just be the right fit for you.

Graduates from Washington and Lee see impressive earnings, with a median income of $94,810 ten years after graduation. This kind of financial outcome suggests that students who excel here are well-prepared for the job market and often find themselves in higher-paying positions. The strong graduation rate of 94% also points to a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

When it comes to the practicalities of attending Washington and Lee, the net price after aid stands at $23,781, which is relatively manageable given the high earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $19,500, students can graduate with a reasonable amount of loans, especially considering the high salaries many alumni achieve. Those who thrive here are typically driven, engaged, and ready to make the most of their educational experience.

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