University of South Dakota vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Vermillion, SD — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Vermillion, SD San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 5,439 21,996
Acceptance Rate 98.8% 31.3%
SAT Average 1,125
In-State Tuition $9,432 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $12,942 $34,665
Avg Net Price $19,858 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $23,592 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 60.6% 85.7%
Retention Rate 79.3% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,290 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $51,926 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 371500.0% 437700.0%

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

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University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of South Dakota and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
University of South Dakota (Vermillion, SD) has an acceptance rate of 98.8%, in-state tuition of $9,432, and median 10-year earnings of $51,926. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of South Dakota or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $51,926. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Dakota or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is the more affordable option at $16,665 per year versus $19,858.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.7% vs 60.6%.

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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