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University of California-San Diego
Explore one of the most distinguished institutions in CA. Your pathway to a brighter future begins here.
Annual Tuition
$15,265
Average Sticker Price
Admission Rate
24.5%
Selectivity Level
Graduation Rate
87.7%
Completion Success
Median Earnings
$84,943
10y Career Outlook
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About Institution
University of California-San Diego is a distinguished Public, 4-Year institution located in La Jolla, CA. With a competitive tuition profile of $15,265, it remains an attractive choice for ambitious students. A strong graduation rate of 87.7% underscores its academic rigor and effective student support systems.
What You Need to Apply
Application requirements for University of California-San Diego
GPA: 4.11 – 4.28 (weighted mid-50%)
Test-Blind Policy
SAT/ACT scores are not considered for admission or scholarships.
4 Essays Required
Choose 4 of 8 UC Personal Insight Questions (350 words each)
No Recommendation Letters
Not accepted
Required Documents
- • UC Application
- • Official transcripts
- • A-G course completion
- • 4 PIQs
Key Deadlines
Regular Decision
December 1, 2025
UC filing window Oct 1 - Dec 1
Financial Aid Priority Deadline
March 2, 2026
File FAFSA by this date to maximize aid eligibility.
Important
Test-blind. International applicants pay $95/campus.
Last verified: April 12, 2026. Source: UCSD Admissions. Always verify requirements directly with University of California-San Diego before applying.
Investment Return
Estimated College ROI Analysis
Total 4-Year Cost
$61,060
Based on sticker tuition
Estimated Payback
1.1 yrs
Time to recoup investment
Annual Earnings Boost
+$54,943
vs. $30k HS diploma baseline
10-Year Net Gain
+$488,370
Cumulative earnings advantage minus total college cost
20-Year Net Gain
+$1,037,800
Long-term projected return on your education investment
ROI estimates use the BLS national median of $30,000/yr for high school diploma holders as a baseline. Actual results vary based on major, career path, location, and individual circumstances. Median graduate debt at University of California-San Diego is $15,500.
Student Community
Gender Balance
Ethnic Diversity
Security Audit
Incidents
540
Burglary
36
Theft
472
Assault
8
Robbery
1
Rape
16
Arson
7
Murder
0
Financial Outlook
Total Sticker Price
$15,265
Estimated cost before aid.
Net Price By Income
Debt & Financial Aid
Repayment measured in 2016–17; this federal measure was discontinued.
Grant Aid (IPEDS 2021)
* Most students receive significant grants and scholarships, reducing the actual cost. Grant data from IPEDS Student Financial Aid survey.
Quick Overview
Faculty Ratio
N/A
Retention
93.9%
Success
87.7%
In-State Cost
$15,265
Age 25+ Students
4.2%
Carnegie Class
R1: Doctoral — Very High Research
Working at 6yr
5,198 students
Local City Insights
We are currently gathering city-level crime and housing data for La Jolla. Check back soon for "Campus vs. City" comparisons!