San Francisco State University vs Vanderbilt University

San Francisco, CA — Nashville, TN

Metric
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Location San Francisco, CA Nashville, TN
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 18,639 7,208
Acceptance Rate 96.4% 5.9%
SAT Average 1,549
In-State Tuition $7,950 $67,498
Out-of-State Tuition $20,550 $67,498
Avg Net Price $12,278 $15,846
Median Debt at Graduation $15,371 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 50.3% 93.1%
Retention Rate 82.7% 96.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,650 $73,909
Median Earnings (10 yr) $68,077 $91,565
Loan Repayment Rate 846800.0% 84500.0%

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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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do San Francisco State University and Vanderbilt 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. Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 5.9%, in-state tuition of $67,498, and median 10-year earnings of $91,565.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, San Francisco State University or Vanderbilt University?
Vanderbilt University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $91,565 vs $68,077. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Francisco State University or Vanderbilt 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 $15,846.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Vanderbilt University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.1% 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