San Diego State University vs California State University-Los Angeles
San Diego, CA — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | San Diego State University San Diego, CA | California State University-Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Diego, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 35,377 | 19,562 |
| Acceptance Rate | 36.2% | 91.3% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $8,728 | $7,160 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $21,328 | $19,760 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,364 | $3,967 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $13,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.3% | 52.8% |
| Retention Rate | 90.6% | 71.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $52,620 | $45,702 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,909 | $59,211 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 794300.0% | 569900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do San Diego State University and California State University-Los Angeles compare?▼
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. 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, San Diego State University or California State University-Los Angeles?▼
San Diego State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,909 vs $59,211. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Diego State 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 $15,364.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
San Diego State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.3% 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