Washington State University vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Pullman, WA — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
Washington State University
Pullman, WA
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Pullman, WA San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 21,099 21,996
Acceptance Rate 86.6% 31.3%
SAT Average
In-State Tuition $13,391 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $29,950 $34,665
Avg Net Price $14,971 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 61.0% 85.7%
Retention Rate 78.3% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,510 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $68,905 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 975300.0% 437700.0%

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

Full Profile
Washington State University
Pullman, WA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Washington State University and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
Washington State University (Pullman, WA) has an acceptance rate of 86.6%, in-state tuition of $13,391, and median 10-year earnings of $68,905. 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, Washington State University 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 $68,905. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Washington State University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Washington State University is the more affordable option at $14,971 per year versus $16,665.
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 61.0%.

More Comparisons

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