Maryland vs Occidental
How Maryland and Occidental stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Maryland | Occidental | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 44% | 45% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1390-1530 | 1290-1470 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Public | Private |
| Location | MD | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $29,996 | $80,362 |
| Average cost after aid | $16,500 | $48,400 |
| Supplemental essays | 3 | 1 |
- Maryland is harder to get into than Occidental (44% versus 45%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Maryland is usually the cheaper option ($16,500 versus $48,400 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Maryland asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Maryland vs Occidental FAQ
Is Maryland or Occidental harder to get into?
Maryland is harder to get into, admitting about 44% of applicants versus 45% at Occidental.
Is Maryland or Occidental cheaper?
After financial aid, Maryland is usually cheaper, about $16,500 per year on average versus $48,400 at Occidental.
See your real chances at Maryland and Occidental.
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