The University of Alabama vs California State University-Los Angeles

Tuscaloosa, AL — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Location Tuscaloosa, AL Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 33,227 19,562
Acceptance Rate 76.6% 91.3%
SAT Average 1,285
In-State Tuition $12,180 $7,160
Out-of-State Tuition $34,172 $19,760
Avg Net Price $22,420 $3,967
Median Debt at Graduation $22,750 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 73.5% 52.8%
Retention Rate 89.5% 71.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,233 $45,702
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,221 $59,211
Loan Repayment Rate 761200.0% 569900.0%

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

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The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
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California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do The University of Alabama and California State University-Los Angeles compare?
The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL) has an acceptance rate of 76.6%, in-state tuition of $12,180, and median 10-year earnings of $59,221. 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, The University of Alabama or California State University-Los Angeles?
The University of Alabama graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $59,221 vs $59,211. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, The University of Alabama 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 $22,420.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
The University of Alabama has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 73.5% 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