Western Kentucky University vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Bowling Green, KY — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Bowling Green, KY San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 12,155 21,996
Acceptance Rate 93.9% 31.3%
SAT Average 971
In-State Tuition $11,652 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $27,000 $34,665
Avg Net Price $10,990 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $22,095 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 54.6% 85.7%
Retention Rate 78.3% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $38,156 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $43,889 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 863500.0% 437700.0%

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

Full Profile
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Western Kentucky University and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
Western Kentucky University (Bowling Green, KY) has an acceptance rate of 93.9%, in-state tuition of $11,652, and median 10-year earnings of $43,889. 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, Western Kentucky 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 $43,889. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Kentucky University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Kentucky University is the more affordable option at $10,990 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 54.6%.

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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