California State University-Fullerton vs American University

Fullerton, CA — Washington, DC

Metric
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
American University
Washington, DC
Location Fullerton, CA Washington, DC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 38,546 7,266
Acceptance Rate 90.5% 62.0%
SAT Average 1,381
In-State Tuition $7,470 $58,771
Out-of-State Tuition $20,070 $58,771
Avg Net Price $6,555 $41,943
Median Debt at Graduation $13,750 $22,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 69.7% 77.0%
Retention Rate 82.4% 88.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,558 $61,328
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,951 $77,370
Loan Repayment Rate 859700.0% 219000.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-Fullerton and American University compare?
California State University-Fullerton (Fullerton, CA) has an acceptance rate of 90.5%, in-state tuition of $7,470, and median 10-year earnings of $62,951. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-Fullerton or American University?
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $62,951. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-Fullerton or American University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fullerton is the more affordable option at $6,555 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 69.7%.

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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