Mcgill University vs University of California, San Diego
Mcgill University
Montreal, Canada
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, United States
Head-to-Head Headliner Comparison
Scan the essential comparative metrics side-by-side to guide your final choice.
| Comparative Indicators | Mcgill University | University of California, San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #27 | #66 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #45 | #34 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #76 | #20 |
| US News Global Rank | #56 | #21 |
| Acceptance Rate | 38% | 26% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | $40,000 | $47,052 |
| Established Year | 1821 | 1960 |
| Total Students Count | 39,513 | 42,974 |
| Campus Safety Rating | 89 / 100 | 88 / 100 |
5-Year Ranking Trajectory
Compare dynamic overall prestige ranking shifts over the past 5 years (lower value = higher rank).
Executive AI Admissions Counselor Verdict
Global Prestige & Reputation Vibe
Overall Verdict: McGill offers globally prestigious, rigorous academics, Canada’s "Ivy League," attracting diverse international students to a traditional intellectual environment. UC San Diego is a top US public institution, a STEM and research powerhouse, known for innovation and dynamic West Coast culture.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
Discipline Match: For humanities, McGill's Department of Philosophy provides exceptional rigor. Conversely, UC San Diego's Bioengineering is world-renowned, offering unparalleled research and industry connections in cutting-edge biotechnologies.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
Final Choice Rule: Choose McGill for a foundational, internationally-scoped intellectual education in arts, humanities, or pure sciences. Opt for UC San Diego for applied sciences, engineering, or health fields, prioritizing innovative research and California industry ties.
Discipline Focus Showdown
Click on any subject in the QS Showdown table below to dynamically compare specific majors, annual tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities side-by-side.
Mcgill University Programs
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University of California, Programs
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Exclusive Scholarships Face-off
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QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Head-to-head QS subject rankings. Click on any subject row to dynamically pull direct courses and scholarships in the Discipline Focus card above!
Mcgill University Exclusive Edge
University of California, Exclusive Edge
Source: QS World University Rankings by Subject. Rankings reflect the best available year in our database.
Cost of Living Face-off
Detailed ballpark monthly student expenditure comparison based on city indices.
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