California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs Cornell University
San Luis Obispo, CA — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Luis Obispo, CA | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 21,996 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 31.3% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,596 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $34,665 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,665 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,500 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.7% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 95.5% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $72,358 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $90,768 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 437700.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and Cornell University compare?▼
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $90,768. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is the more affordable option at $16,665 per year versus $28,690.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% vs 85.7%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
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Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025