American University vs San Diego State University
Washington, DC — San Diego, CA
| Metric | American University Washington, DC | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC | San Diego, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 7,266 | 35,377 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.0% | 36.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,381 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $58,771 | $8,728 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $58,771 | $21,328 |
| Avg Net Price | $41,943 | $15,364 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.0% | 77.3% |
| Retention Rate | 88.2% | 90.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,328 | $52,620 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370 | $64,909 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 219000.0% | 794300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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American University
Washington, DC
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do American University and San Diego State University 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. San Diego State University (San Diego, CA) has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, in-state tuition of $8,728, and median 10-year earnings of $64,909.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American University or San Diego State University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American University or San Diego State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Diego State University is the more affordable option at $15,364 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
San Diego State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.3% vs 77.0%.
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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