Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given UC San Diego's 24.5% acceptance rate, most applicants—even highly qualified ones—will need backup options. The schools below deliver comparable career outcomes with more accessible admission, different geographic options, or better value.
These schools offer higher acceptance rates while delivering comparable career outcomes.
For similar outcomes with better admission odds, consider University of San Diego with 46.8% acceptance and $86,522 median earnings, located just 8 miles away. University of Redlands admits 80.9% of applicants while producing graduates earning $72,690, though with higher net costs. UC Davis offers 41.6% admission rates with $80,838 median earnings and similar program strengths in a public university setting.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
California residents should consider UC Irvine (25.6% acceptance, $80,735 earnings) located 64 miles south, offering similar selectivity with comparable outcomes. University of San Diego provides nearby access just 8 miles away with $86,522 median earnings, though at higher cost. UC Davis, located 466 miles north, delivers $80,838 earnings with 41.6% admission rates in a similar public research environment.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
