Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Occidental College vs Santa Clara University

Los Angeles, CA · Santa Clara, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Occidental CollegeSanta Clara University
Acceptance Rate39.9%43.8%
In-State Tuition$63,446$59,241
Out-of-State Tuition$63,446$59,241
Average Net Price$27,178$30,094
Graduation Rate85.0%88.0%

GradFax Analysis

Occidental College accepts 39.9% of applicants. Santa Clara University accepts 43.8%. Occidental College's tuition is $63,446. Santa Clara University's is $59,241. Santa Clara University is cheaper. Occidental College graduates 85% of students in 6 years. Santa Clara University graduates 88%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Occidental College profileSanta Clara University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Occidental College or Santa Clara University?

Occidental College. It accepts 39.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Occidental College or Santa Clara University more affordable?

Santa Clara University has lower published tuition: $59,241 versus $63,446. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Santa Clara University: 88% of students finish in 6 years. Occidental College is at 85%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Occidental College vs Santa Clara University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax