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University of California-San Diego vs Wellesley College

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

13
University Wins
13
Tied / N/A
16
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Far West
Region
New England
34,948
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

27%
Acceptance Rate
14%
N/A
SAT Average
1520
N/A
ACT Midpoint
33
N/A
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,758
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$50,958
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$12,470
Average Net Price
$25,496
$7,525
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$8,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$9,942
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$28,785
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
34%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
21%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
91%
94%
Retention Rate
97%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$19,117
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
40%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

52%
Female
N/A
17%
White
30%
27%
Hispanic
14%
2%
Black
8%
35%
Asian
26%
0.76
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$65,669
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$77,893
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$84,943
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$15,500
Median Debt
$10,000
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
73%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
240.83%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.83
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.00
12.1%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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