California State University-San Marcos vs Santa Clara University
San Marcos, CA — Santa Clara, CA
| Metric | California State University-San Marcos San Marcos, CA | Santa Clara University Santa Clara, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Marcos, CA | Santa Clara, CA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 14,877 | 6,552 |
| Acceptance Rate | 95.1% | 48.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,426 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,082 | $61,293 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $20,682 | $61,293 |
| Avg Net Price | $10,229 | $50,062 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,350 | $19,162 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 54.4% | 88.2% |
| Retention Rate | 78.6% | 93.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $48,673 | $91,198 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,908 | $109,183 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 333500.0% | 120700.0% |
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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Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do California State University-San Marcos and Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA) has an acceptance rate of 48.0%, in-state tuition of $61,293, and median 10-year earnings of $109,183.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-San Marcos or Santa Clara University?▼
Santa Clara University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $109,183 vs $62,908. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-San Marcos or Santa Clara 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 $50,062.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Santa Clara University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.2% 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