University of California-Merced vs California State University-Fullerton
Merced, CA — Fullerton, CA
| Metric | University of California-Merced Merced, CA | California State University-Fullerton Fullerton, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Merced, CA | Fullerton, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 8,372 | 38,546 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90.5% | 90.5% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $15,623 | $7,470 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $49,823 | $20,070 |
| Avg Net Price | $11,983 | $6,555 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $16,144 | $13,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 68.9% | 69.7% |
| Retention Rate | 82.1% | 82.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $48,475 | $48,558 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,368 | $62,951 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 142300.0% | 859700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of California-Merced
Merced, CA
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California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Merced and California State University-Fullerton compare?▼
University of California-Merced (Merced, CA) has an acceptance rate of 90.5%, in-state tuition of $15,623, and median 10-year earnings of $64,368. California State University-Fullerton (Fullerton, CA) has an acceptance rate of 90.5%, in-state tuition of $7,470, and median 10-year earnings of $62,951.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Merced or California State University-Fullerton?▼
University of California-Merced graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,368 vs $62,951. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Merced or California State University-Fullerton?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fullerton is the more affordable option at $6,555 per year versus $11,983.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
California State University-Fullerton has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 69.7% vs 68.9%.
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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