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AdmissionsOS

Chapman University vs University of California-Santa Cruz

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

Chapman University University of California-Santa Cruz
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 65% 66%
SAT range (mid 50%) 1,260-1,440 n/a
ACT range (mid 50%) 28-31 n/a
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $46,555 $17,890
Sticker cost of attendance $83,146 $41,179
Graduation rate 82% 75%
Retention rate 92% 88%
Undergraduates 7,478 17,940
Student-faculty ratio 12:1 22:1
Setting Orange, CA Santa Cruz, CA
Type Private nonprofit Public
Application fee $70 $80
Test policy Required for some Test-blind

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

Is Chapman University or University of California-Santa Cruz harder to get into?

Chapman University is more selective, with a 65% acceptance rate versus 66% at University of California-Santa Cruz. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, Chapman University or University of California-Santa Cruz?

University of California-Santa Cruz has the lower average net price ($17,890 versus $46,555). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.