University of California-San Diego
University of California-San Diego has an acceptance rate of 26.7%, average net price of $12,470, and a national rank of #37 (Grade A+), with a 86.1% six-year graduation rate, and median earnings of $65,669 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
University of California-San Diego is a public university in La Jolla, CA. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Computer Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 19:1 student-faculty ratio. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 122.8%, roughly 72.9 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community.
Who is University of California-San Diego Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
University of California-San Diego graduates 86.1% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use University of California-San Diego's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | Not reported |
| Books and Supplies | Not reported |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $38,701 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: Only 0.0% of University of California-San Diego students receive Pell Grants — far below the national average, underscoring equity challenges.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $7,525 to $28,785 depending on family income. Use University of California-San Diego's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $15,199/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $28,785/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $65,669
- 10-Year Median Earnings $65,669
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $14,778
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 82.1%
- Employment Rate 90.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for University of California-San Diego graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
University of California-San Diego vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of California-San Diego's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of California-San Diego's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: University of California-San Diego graduates report median earnings of $65,669 six years after enrollment, +50% above the national median. The 122.8% ROI indicates solid long-term value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate Not reported
- Graduation Rate 86.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 19:1
How to Get Into University of California-San Diego
1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of California-San Diego requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 26.7%, University of California-San Diego is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: University of California-San Diego accepts 26.7% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of California-San Diego undergraduates. International/Globalization Studies, Cognitive Science, and Computer Science draw the most students.
- International/Globalization Studies 7.5%
- Cognitive Science 7.5%
- Computer Science 5.2%
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences 5.2%
- Economics 4.8%
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology 4.6%
See more majors
- Political Science and Government 4.6%
- Biology, General 3.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $160,463
- 2. Computer Engineering $154,498
- 3. Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology $138,331
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $120,436
- 5. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $118,528
- 6. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $107,359
- 7. Mechanical Engineering $99,554
- 8. Chemical Engineering $97,911
- 9. Engineering, Other $94,292
- 10. Civil Engineering $91,984
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Computer Science (Master's Degree) $301,159
- 2. Computer Engineering (Master's Degree) $206,109
- 3. Economics (Doctoral Degree) $162,229
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $156,032
- 5. Physics (Doctoral Degree) $153,107
- 6. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $146,806
- 7. Engineering, Other (Master's Degree) $142,225
- 8. Biomedical/Medical Engineering (Master's Degree) $141,614
- 9. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degree) $141,515
- 10. Biomedical/Medical Engineering (Doctoral Degree) $135,080
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $160,463—74% more than Civil Engineering ($91,984). Graduate: Computer Science programs lead with $301,159 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of California-San Diego. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Cognitive Science (Bachelor's Degree, 632 graduates)
- International/Global Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 631 graduates)
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences (Bachelor's Degree, 436 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 435 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 403 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (70 programs)▼
- Cognitive Science
- International/Global Studies
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Political Science and Government
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Biology, General
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Public Health
- Communication and Media Studies
- Psychology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Computer Engineering
- Sociology
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- History
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Statistics
- Physics
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Anthropology
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Engineering, Other
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Psychology, Other
- Social Sciences, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Philosophy
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Music
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
- Design and Applied Arts
- Area Studies
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Real Estate Development
- Education, General
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Dance
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Engineering Physics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering Science
Online Master's Degrees (56 programs)▼
- Computer Science
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Applied Mathematics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biology, General
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Computer Engineering
- Chemistry
- Mechanical Engineering
- Education, General
- Engineering, Other
- Civil Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Public Policy Analysis
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Public Health
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Systems Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Computational Science
- Statistics
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Economics
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Political Science and Government
- Engineering Physics
- Mathematics
- Anthropology
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Physics
- History
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Music
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Cognitive Science
- Area Studies
- Philosophy
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Sociology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Communication and Media Studies
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Psychology, General
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- English Language and Literature, General
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
Online Doctoral Degrees (52 programs)▼
- Biology, General
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Physics
- Economics
- Engineering, Other
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Education, General
- Music
- Mathematics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Systems Engineering
- Sociology
- History
- Cognitive Science
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Political Science and Government
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Physics
- Computer Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Communication and Media Studies
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Public Health
- Psychology, Other
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Applied Mathematics
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Psychology, General
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Materials Sciences
- Literature
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Medicine
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 0.0%
- Female Students 0.0%
- Caucasian 17.2%
- Asian 34.6%
- Hispanic 26.5%
- Black 1.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 0.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of California-San Diego's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of University of California-San Diego's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of California-San Diego support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of California-San Diego, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: University of California-San Diego has a diverse student body, with 17.2% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of California-San Diego support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of California-San Diego, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
University of California-San Diego delivers an impressive 122.8% return on investment while maintaining competitive admissions standards. Ranked #37 nationally, this flagship combines research university resources with public accessibility.
Impressive 86.1% six-year graduation rate and $65,669 median earnings demonstrate strong outcomes. The $12,470 annual net price provides significant savings versus private alternatives, with 94.0% retention reflecting student satisfaction.
Public University Value: University of California-San Diego's Competitive Position
EDsmart Grade: A+ | National Rank: #37 of 6119 | 97.9/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)
Value Proposition: At $12,470 annually, University of California-San Diego costs 50-70% less than comparable private universities while delivering similar career outcomes. The 122.8% ROI reflects strong earning potential ($65,669 median) relative to total degree cost—a hallmark of top public universities.
Best For: In-state students benefit from additional tuition savings. Students in STEM, engineering, business, and pre-med programs access research opportunities and industry connections rivaling elite privates. Value-conscious families seeking prestige without private school premiums find ideal balance here.
Trade-offs: Larger class sizes and less personalized attention than small liberal arts colleges. Out-of-state students pay higher rates but still typically save versus private alternatives. Career services and networking, while strong, may not match elite private school alumni networks in certain fields like investment banking.
Competitive Context: Among our dataset, 631 institutions achieve higher ROI scores, though many sacrifice academic quality or student experience. University of California-San Diego balances strong outcomes with reasonable costs—the definition of value in higher education.
Key Takeaways
- 86.1% six-year graduation rate sits 23.6 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 94.0% first-year retention is 17.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 122.8% return on investment is 72.9 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $65,669 run about 50% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $12,470 is roughly $4,956 lower than the national median of $17,426.
Helpfulness for Students
- 19:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 94.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.1% employment rate within three years sits 21.9 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in La Jolla, CA, University of California-San Diego operates as a public university and receives a A+ from EDsmart. It holds a #37 national ranking Completion earns A, Support B, Career Outcomes A, and Affordability B+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
The six-year graduation rate hovers around 86.1%. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 122.8%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $12,470 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $38,701.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $26,231 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,778 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
Pell Grant participation data is not reported.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $65,669 six years after entry. Compared with the national median, that's 50% higher.
The three-year employment rate is close to 90.1%.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 122.8%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
26.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the University of California-San Diego admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is University of California-San Diego's acceptance rate?
University of California-San Diego's acceptance rate is 26.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does University of California-San Diego cost?
At University of California-San Diego, the average net price after aid is $12,470. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is University of California-San Diego's ranking?
University of California-San Diego ranks #37 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is University of California-San Diego's graduation rate?
At University of California-San Diego, the six-year graduation rate is 86.1%.
What are University of California-San Diego's job outcomes?
Graduates of University of California-San Diego report median earnings of $65,669 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
Contact Information
- Address La Jolla, CA 92093
- Website www.ucsd.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
- Endowment$1.36B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate3.7%