UC San Diego Acceptance Rate 2025
Quick Answer
UC San Diego’s acceptance rate for 2025 stands at approximately 26.7%, making it one of California’s most selective public universities. In-state tuition runs $16,758 annually, while out-of-state students pay $50,958. Graduates earn a median of $84,943 ten years after enrollment, reflecting strong career outcomes across STEM and professional programs.
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UC San Diego admitted approximately 26.7% of applicants in the 2024-2025 admission cycle, according to data current as of April 2026. With an enrollment of 34,948 students, the university maintains highly competitive admission standards while serving a large undergraduate and graduate population.
The university’s acceptance rate reflects its status as a top-tier public research institution within the University of California system. Prospective students should expect rigorous academic competition, with admissions decisions based on GPA, standardized test scores, essays, and extracurricular involvement.
SAT & ACT Scores
Unfortunately, specific SAT and ACT score ranges (25th-75th percentile) are not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should visit UC San Diego’s official admissions website or contact the admissions office directly for the most current standardized test score expectations. Most admitted students at highly selective institutions like UC San Diego typically score in the top percentiles nationally.
Tuition & Costs
UC San Diego’s cost of attendance varies significantly by residency status:
| Cost Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $16,758 | $50,958 |
| Room & Board | See official website | See official website |
| Books & Supplies | See official website | See official website |
In-State Annual Tuition: $16,758
Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $50,958
Average Net Price: $12,470 (after accounting for grants and aid)
The average net price of $12,470 represents what students typically pay after financial aid is applied, making UC San Diego more affordable than the sticker price suggests for many families. However, students should note that room, board, and other expenses beyond tuition will increase the total cost of attendance. Uc San Diego Tuition Financial Aid
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UC San Diego is committed to making education accessible through robust financial aid. The average net price of $12,470 indicates that most students receive substantial grant aid to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
The university participates in federal financial aid programs and offers institutional scholarships. Students should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be considered for all available aid, including federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. For detailed information on specific aid packages by income bracket and merit scholarships, prospective students should contact UC San Diego’s Financial Aid Office directly.
Graduation Rates
UC San Diego demonstrates strong academic outcomes with an 86.77% completion rate (six-year graduation rate). This figure exceeds the national average for four-year public universities, reflecting both student academic preparation and institutional support systems.
The high completion rate indicates that the vast majority of students who enroll complete their degrees within six years. This metric is important for prospective students evaluating the likelihood of degree completion and return on investment.
Post-Graduation Earnings
Ten years after initial enrollment, UC San Diego graduates earn a median of $84,943 annually. This strong earnings figure reflects the university’s emphasis on STEM disciplines, engineering, business, and other high-demand fields.
Earnings vary significantly by major and career path. Students in engineering, computer science, and quantitative fields typically earn above the median, while those in education and social sciences may earn somewhat less. The $84,943 median represents a solid return on investment, especially when considering the relatively affordable net price of attendance.
Popular Majors
UC San Diego offers over 200 degree programs across six colleges. While specific degree counts by major are not available in the current dataset, the university is particularly renowned for:
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Biological Sciences
- Physical Sciences and Mathematics
- Business and Management
- Psychology
- Health Professions
Students interested in STEM fields will find extensive research opportunities and world-class faculty. The university’s proximity to San Diego’s biotech corridor and tech industry creates strong internship and career networking opportunities. Uc San Diego Engineering Programs Uc San Diego Computer Science Major
Demographics
UC San Diego serves a diverse student body of 34,948 students. The university is committed to building a campus community that reflects California’s diversity and includes students from all backgrounds and socioeconomic circumstances.
For current demographic breakdowns by race/ethnicity and gender, prospective students should consult UC San Diego’s official institutional research website or contact the admissions office, as detailed demographic data is not available in the current dataset.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UC San Diego’s acceptance rate for 2025?
UC San Diego’s acceptance rate is approximately 26.7%, making it a highly selective institution. This means roughly one in four applicants are admitted. Acceptance rates can vary slightly year to year, so students should verify the most current figure with the admissions office.
How much does UC San Diego cost for in-state students?
In-state tuition is $16,758 annually. However, the total cost of attendance—including room, board, books, and other expenses—is higher. Importantly, the average net price after financial aid is $12,470, meaning most students pay substantially less than the sticker price.
What are the typical SAT and ACT scores for admitted students?
While specific score ranges are not available in this dataset, UC San Diego is highly selective and typically admits students with scores in the top percentiles nationally. Prospective students should contact the admissions office or visit the official website for current standardized test score expectations.
What is the graduation rate at UC San Diego?
UC San Diego has a six-year graduation rate of 86.77%, which exceeds the national average for public universities. This indicates strong student success and institutional support.
How much do UC San Diego graduates earn after graduation?
Ten years after enrollment, UC San Diego graduates earn a median of $84,943 annually. Earnings vary by major, with engineering and computer science graduates typically earning above this median.
Is UC San Diego affordable for out-of-state students?
Out-of-state tuition is $50,958 annually, which is substantially higher than in-state costs. However, out-of-state students may also qualify for grants and financial aid that reduce the net price. The average net price of $12,470 applies to both in-state and out-of-state students, though individual aid packages vary based on financial need and merit.
What majors is UC San Diego known for?
UC San Diego is particularly renowned for engineering, computer science, biological sciences, and physical sciences. The university also offers strong programs in business, psychology, and health professions. With over 200 degree programs, students have extensive options across six colleges.
Data Sources
The statistics and figures in this article come from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, with data current as of April 2026. Prospective students are encouraged to verify all figures directly with UC San Diego’s admissions and financial aid offices, as institutional data is updated regularly and individual circumstances may affect costs and aid eligibility.