James Madison University vs California State University-Los Angeles

Harrisonburg, VA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Location Harrisonburg, VA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 20,888 19,562
Acceptance Rate 71.5% 91.3%
SAT Average 1,256
In-State Tuition $14,250 $7,160
Out-of-State Tuition $31,604 $19,760
Avg Net Price $23,322 $3,967
Median Debt at Graduation $20,093 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.3% 52.8%
Retention Rate 92.0% 71.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $57,438 $45,702
Median Earnings (10 yr) $69,954 $59,211
Loan Repayment Rate 457600.0% 569900.0%

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

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James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
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California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do James Madison University and California State University-Los Angeles compare?
James Madison University (Harrisonburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 71.5%, in-state tuition of $14,250, and median 10-year earnings of $69,954. California State University-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 91.3%, in-state tuition of $7,160, and median 10-year earnings of $59,211.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, James Madison University or California State University-Los Angeles?
James Madison University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $69,954 vs $59,211. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, James Madison University or California State University-Los Angeles?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $3,967 per year versus $23,322.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
James Madison University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 80.3% vs 52.8%.

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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