San Francisco State University vs American University
San Francisco, CA — Washington, DC
| Metric | San Francisco State University San Francisco, CA | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Francisco, CA | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 18,639 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 96.4% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $7,950 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $20,550 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $12,278 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,371 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 50.3% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 82.7% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $52,650 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $68,077 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 846800.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do San Francisco State University and American University compare?▼
San Francisco State University (San Francisco, CA) has an acceptance rate of 96.4%, in-state tuition of $7,950, and median 10-year earnings of $68,077. American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, San Francisco State University or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $68,077. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Francisco State University or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Francisco State University is the more affordable option at $12,278 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.0% vs 50.3%.
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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