American University vs California State University-Los Angeles
Washington, DC — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | American University Washington, DC | California State University-Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 7,266 | 19,562 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.0% | 91.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,381 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $58,771 | $7,160 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $58,771 | $19,760 |
| Avg Net Price | $41,943 | $3,967 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $13,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.0% | 52.8% |
| Retention Rate | 88.2% | 71.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,328 | $45,702 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370 | $59,211 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 219000.0% | 569900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
American University
Washington, DC
View full college profile →
Full Profile
California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do American University and California State University-Los Angeles compare?▼
American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370. California State University-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 91.3%, in-state tuition of $7,160, and median 10-year earnings of $59,211.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American University or California State University-Los Angeles?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $59,211. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American University or California State University-Los Angeles?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $3,967 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.0% vs 52.8%.
More Comparisons
All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025