Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Santa Clara University vs University of San Diego

Santa Clara, CA · San Diego, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Santa Clara UniversityUniversity of San Diego
Acceptance Rate43.8%46.7%
In-State Tuition$59,241$56,444
Out-of-State Tuition$59,241$56,444
Average Net Price$30,094$20,468
Graduation Rate88.0%82.0%

GradFax Analysis

Santa Clara University accepts 43.8% of applicants. University of San Diego accepts 46.7%. Santa Clara University's tuition is $59,241. University of San Diego's is $56,444. University of San Diego is cheaper. Santa Clara University graduates 88% of students in 6 years. University of San Diego graduates 82%.

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 →Santa Clara University profileUniversity of San Diego profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Santa Clara University or University of San Diego?

Santa Clara University. It accepts 43.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Santa Clara University or University of San Diego more affordable?

University of San Diego has lower published tuition: $56,444 versus $59,241. 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. University of San Diego is at 82%.

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.

Santa Clara University vs University of San Diego: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax