Illinois State University vs San Diego State University
Normal, IL — San Diego, CA
| Metric | Illinois State University Normal, IL | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Normal, IL | San Diego, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 19,057 | 35,377 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.1% | 36.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,113 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $16,144 | $8,728 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,210 | $21,328 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,398 | $15,364 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,482 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 65.4% | 77.3% |
| Retention Rate | 81.4% | 90.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $50,599 | $52,620 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,117 | $64,909 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 771600.0% | 794300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Illinois State University
Normal, IL
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Illinois State University and San Diego State University compare?▼
Illinois State University (Normal, IL) has an acceptance rate of 88.1%, in-state tuition of $16,144, and median 10-year earnings of $62,117. San Diego State University (San Diego, CA) has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, in-state tuition of $8,728, and median 10-year earnings of $64,909.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Illinois State University or San Diego State University?▼
San Diego State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,909 vs $62,117. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Illinois State University or San Diego State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Diego State University is the more affordable option at $15,364 per year versus $19,398.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
San Diego State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.3% vs 65.4%.
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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