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College Roadmap · Family ROI Report
UNIVERSITY · CDS 2024-2025
University of California San Diego (UCSD)
Prepared for Sample Student · San Diego, CA
Best-case 4-yr offset
$-1,702
AP savings
Typical 4-yr offset
$58,090
AP + avg merit × 4
Need-based (if eligible)
up to $123,728 / 4 yrs
Admissions Reality
28.4%
Yield 19.4% · Test Blind
Annual Sticker Cost
$76,458
Net after avg aid: $45,526
AP Tuition Saved
$-1,702
-1 credits · -0.1 semester(s)

Admissions Profile

SAT Total (mid 50%)
—
ACT Composite
—
GPA
Not reported
Decision Plans
RD

99% of students had a GPA of 3.75 or higher.

Cost Breakdown

Tuition$51,063
Fees$5,388
Room & board$17,550
Cost of Attendance (sticker)$76,458
Average need-based aid− $30,932
Net price (avg)$45,526

Merit Scholarship Opportunity

Regents Scholarship
Chancellor's Associates Scholarship
George Parker Memorial Scholarship

AP Investment & Return

Based on UC San Diego's AP credit policy (min score 3, capped at -1 credits).

Edit AP profile
Calculus BC
+5 credits · $8,510
5
Chemistry
+5 credits · $8,510
5
Biology
+5 credits · $8,510
5
English Language
+5 credits · $8,510
4
US History
+5 credits · $8,510
4
Credits
-1
Sem. saved
-0.1
Saved
$-1,702
College Board Recognition
AP Scholar with Distinction

Average score of 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3+ on 5 or more exams.

Say to the parent

"UCSD offers your child a world-class education at a public school price. It's a research giant, especially in the sciences, so if your child is a budding scientist or engineer, they'll have unparalleled opportunities to get involved in cutting-edge research from day one. But it's not just about the academics. The campus culture is collaborative and innovative, and with its location in La Jolla, your child will have access to a vibrant and diverse community."

Say to the student

"Life at UCSD is what you make of it. It's a big school, but the college system creates smaller communities to help you find your people. The academics are top-notch, and you'll be surrounded by brilliant and motivated students. But it's not all work and no play. You're in San Diego, so the beach is right there. The vibe is pretty laid-back, and there's always something going on, whether it's a concert, a festival, or just a bonfire on the beach."

College Admissions Co-pilot · Sourced from CDS 2024-2025 + official school financial aid & AP credit policy pagesUpdated 2026-04-22