Boston University vs San Diego State University
Boston, MA — San Diego, CA
| Metric | Boston University Boston, MA | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Boston, MA | San Diego, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 18,248 | 35,377 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.1% | 36.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,480 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $68,102 | $8,728 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,102 | $21,328 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,402 | $15,364 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 89.3% | 77.3% |
| Retention Rate | 94.7% | 90.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $65,655 | $52,620 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $83,238 | $64,909 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 471400.0% | 794300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Boston University
Boston, MA
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Boston University and San Diego State University compare?▼
Boston University (Boston, MA) has an acceptance rate of 11.1%, in-state tuition of $68,102, and median 10-year earnings of $83,238. 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, Boston University or San Diego State University?▼
Boston University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $83,238 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Boston 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 $24,402.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Boston University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.3% vs 77.3%.
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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