Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

University of California-Riverside vs University of California-Santa Cruz

Riverside, CA · Santa Cruz, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

University of California-RiversideUniversity of California-Santa Cruz
Acceptance Rate63.3%62.5%
In-State Tuition$14,170$14,560
Out-of-State Tuition$44,947$45,337
Average Net Price$13,533$16,526
Graduation Rate77.0%74.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. University of California-Riverside accepts 63.3% of applicants; University of California-Santa Cruz accepts 62.5%. Tuition is close: $14,170 at University of California-Riverside, $14,560 at University of California-Santa Cruz. University of California-Riverside graduates 77% of students in 6 years. University of California-Santa Cruz graduates 74%.

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 →University of California-Riverside profileUniversity of California-Santa Cruz profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, University of California-Riverside or University of California-Santa Cruz?

University of California-Santa Cruz. It accepts 62.5% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is University of California-Riverside or University of California-Santa Cruz more affordable?

University of California-Riverside, on average. After aid, students pay $13,533/year versus $16,526/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

University of California-Riverside: 77% of students finish in 6 years. University of California-Santa Cruz is at 74%.

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.

University of California-Riverside vs University of California-Santa Cruz: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax