San Diego State University vs George Mason University
San Diego, CA — Fairfax, VA
| Metric | San Diego State University San Diego, CA | George Mason University Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Diego, CA | Fairfax, VA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 35,377 | 27,752 |
| Acceptance Rate | 36.2% | 87.5% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,274 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,728 | $14,220 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $21,328 | $38,688 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,364 | $17,915 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.3% | 68.6% |
| Retention Rate | 90.6% | 86.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $52,620 | $60,536 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,909 | $76,343 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 794300.0% | 731900.0% |
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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George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do San Diego State University and George Mason University 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. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, San Diego State University or George Mason University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Diego State University or George Mason 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 $17,915.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
San Diego State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.3% vs 68.6%.
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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