UC San Diego Acceptance Rate 2026
Quick Answer
UC San Diego’s acceptance rate for the 2026 academic year stands at 26.71%, making it one of California’s most selective public universities. With in-state tuition at $16,758 annually and an average net price of $12,470, UCSD remains relatively affordable compared to private institutions. Graduates earn a median of $84,943 ten years after enrollment, reflecting strong career outcomes across diverse fields.
Preparing for test? Kaplan’s test prep has helped millions score higher.
Learn More →Acceptance Snapshot
UC San Diego admitted approximately 26.71% of applicants in the 2026 admissions cycle, maintaining its position as a highly selective institution within the University of California system. The university enrolled 34,948 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs as of the data collection date (April 2026).
This acceptance rate reflects UCSD’s competitive standing among top public research universities. The school continues to attract a large applicant pool, with selectivity driven by strong academics, research opportunities, and its location in San Diego. Prospective students should understand that admission requires more than meeting minimum test score thresholds—the university evaluates applications holistically, considering essays, extracurricular activities, and demonstrated interest.
SAT & ACT Scores
Note: Detailed SAT and ACT percentile ranges (25th–75th percentile) were not included in the available data. Prospective students should verify current standardized test score expectations directly with UC San Diego’s admissions office, as these figures are updated annually and may vary by school or major within the university.
Tuition & Costs
UC San Diego’s cost of attendance varies significantly based on residency status:
| Cost Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $16,758 | $50,958 |
| Average Net Price | $12,470 | — |
The in-state tuition of $16,758 reflects UC system pricing and is substantially lower than comparable private research universities. Out-of-state students pay $50,958 in tuition alone, though many receive financial aid that reduces their net cost. The average net price of $12,470 indicates that, on average, students pay this amount after accounting for grants and scholarships—significantly below the sticker price.
Students should note that these figures cover tuition only. Total cost of attendance typically includes room and board, books, supplies, and personal expenses, which can add $15,000–$25,000+ annually depending on housing choices and lifestyle.
Get expert feedback on your university application essay
Learn More →Financial Aid Overview
UC San Diego is committed to making education affordable. The average net price of $12,470 demonstrates the university’s dedication to financial aid. This figure represents what the average student actually pays after grants and scholarships are applied, making UCSD accessible to students from varied economic backgrounds.
The median student debt upon graduation is $15,500, which is reasonable compared to national averages. This suggests that while many students borrow to finance their education, debt levels remain manageable. Students should explore all aid options, including federal grants, state aid, institutional scholarships, and work-study opportunities. The FAFSA and California Dream Act application are essential for accessing aid at UCSD.
Graduation Rates
UC San Diego reports a completion rate of 86.77%, indicating that the vast majority of students who enroll graduate within six years. This rate exceeds the national average for public research universities, reflecting strong academic support systems, robust advising, and student engagement. The high graduation rate also suggests that admitted students are well-matched to the institution’s academic rigor and resources.
A completion rate above 85% is a positive indicator for prospective students, as it suggests the university effectively supports student success from enrollment through degree conferral.
Post-Graduation Earnings
Graduates of UC San Diego earn a median of $84,943 ten years after entry, according to College Scorecard data. This figure reflects earnings across all majors and represents a strong return on investment, particularly when compared to the relatively affordable tuition costs for in-state students.
Earnings vary by field of study, with engineering, computer science, and business graduates typically earning above the median, while humanities and social science graduates may earn somewhat less. However, the overall median earnings demonstrate that a UCSD degree opens doors to well-compensated careers across sectors.
Popular Majors
Note: Specific data on the top 10 majors by degrees awarded was not included in the available dataset. For detailed information on program enrollment and degree production by major, prospective students should consult UC San Diego’s institutional research office or the university’s official enrollment reports.
Demographics
Note: Detailed demographic breakdown by race/ethnicity and gender was not included in the available data. For current enrollment demographics, students should visit UC San Diego’s official admissions or institutional research website, which provides comprehensive diversity statistics updated annually.
Related Guides
- UC San Diego Acceptance Rate 2025: 26.7% Admission Stats
- Caltech Acceptance Rate 2025: 2.57% Admission Stats
- TCU Acceptance Rate 2026: 44.5% Admission Stats
- Brown University Acceptance Rate 2025: 3-4% Admission Stats
- Dartmouth College Acceptance Rate 2025: 5.4% Admission Stats
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UC San Diego’s acceptance rate for 2026?
UC San Diego’s acceptance rate for the 2026 admissions cycle is 26.71%, making it a highly selective institution. This means that fewer than three in ten applicants are admitted, so students should have strong academic credentials, test scores, and well-crafted essays to be competitive.
How much does it cost to attend UC San Diego?
In-state tuition is $16,758 annually, while out-of-state tuition is $50,958. However, the average net price (what students actually pay after aid) is $12,470, meaning financial aid significantly reduces the cost for most students. Total cost of attendance, including room, board, and other expenses, will be higher.
Is UC San Diego affordable for out-of-state students?
While the sticker price for out-of-state tuition is high at $50,958, many out-of-state students receive financial aid that lowers their net cost. UC San Diego uses a combination of federal aid, state aid, and institutional scholarships to support students from all backgrounds. Prospective out-of-state students should complete the FAFSA to determine their aid eligibility.
What is the typical debt for UC San Diego graduates?
The median student debt at graduation is $15,500, which is considered manageable compared to national averages. This suggests that while many students borrow, debt levels do not become burdensome for most graduates, especially given post-graduation earnings of $84,943 at the ten-year mark.
How many students attend UC San Diego?
UC San Diego has an enrollment of 34,948 students, including both undergraduate and graduate students. This makes it a large research university with substantial resources, diverse academic programs, and vibrant campus life.
What do UC San Diego graduates earn after graduation?
Graduates earn a median of $84,943 ten years after entry, according to College Scorecard data. This strong earnings outcome reflects the university’s reputation, rigorous academics, and career preparation programs. Earnings vary by major, with STEM fields typically earning above the median.
How selective is UC San Diego compared to other UC schools?
With a 26.71% acceptance rate, UC San Diego is among the more selective UC campuses, comparable to UC Berkeley and UCLA. The university’s strong research programs, excellent faculty, and location in San Diego contribute to its competitive admissions process.
What is the graduation rate at UC San Diego?
UC San Diego’s completion rate is 86.77%, meaning that roughly 87 out of 100 students graduate within six years. This above-average graduation rate indicates strong student support and academic success at the institution.
Data Sources
The statistics and figures in this article are sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, as of April 2026. Acceptance rates, tuition figures, financial aid data, completion rates, and post-graduation earnings reflect the most recent available data from these authoritative sources.
For the most current information on admissions requirements, financial aid, and program offerings, prospective students should visit UC San Diego’s official admissions website and contact the university directly, as figures are updated regularly.
Find scholarships for university — over $10B available
Learn More →