California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs Washington State University
San Luis Obispo, CA — Pullman, WA
| Metric | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA | Washington State University Pullman, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Luis Obispo, CA | Pullman, WA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 21,996 | 21,099 |
| Acceptance Rate | 31.3% | 86.6% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $13,596 | $13,391 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $34,665 | $29,950 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,665 | $14,971 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,500 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.7% | 61.0% |
| Retention Rate | 95.5% | 78.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $72,358 | $53,510 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $90,768 | $68,905 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 437700.0% | 975300.0% |
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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Washington State University
Pullman, WA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and Washington State 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. Washington State University (Pullman, WA) has an acceptance rate of 86.6%, in-state tuition of $13,391, and median 10-year earnings of $68,905.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Washington State University?▼
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $68,905. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Washington State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Washington State University is the more affordable option at $14,971 per year versus $16,665.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.7% vs 61.0%.
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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