California State University-San Marcos vs Nova Southeastern University
San Marcos, CA — Fort Lauderdale, FL
| Metric | California State University-San Marcos San Marcos, CA | Nova Southeastern University Fort Lauderdale, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Marcos, CA | Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 14,877 | 7,240 |
| Acceptance Rate | 95.1% | 73.2% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,157 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,082 | $38,700 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $20,682 | $38,700 |
| Avg Net Price | $10,229 | $30,371 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,350 | $24,250 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 54.4% | 63.8% |
| Retention Rate | 78.6% | 75.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $48,673 | $58,153 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,908 | $59,209 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 333500.0% | 401500.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
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Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do California State University-San Marcos and Nova Southeastern University compare?▼
California State University-San Marcos (San Marcos, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.1%, in-state tuition of $8,082, and median 10-year earnings of $62,908. Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL) has an acceptance rate of 73.2%, in-state tuition of $38,700, and median 10-year earnings of $59,209.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-San Marcos or Nova Southeastern University?▼
California State University-San Marcos graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $62,908 vs $59,209. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-San Marcos or Nova Southeastern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-San Marcos is the more affordable option at $10,229 per year versus $30,371.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Nova Southeastern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 63.8% vs 54.4%.
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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