College Comparison
American University vs San Diego State University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
American University
Washington, DC
School
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | American University | San Diego State |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 47.4% | 34.4%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1300–1450wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 29–33 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $56,543 | $20,170wins |
| Avg Net Price | $41,945 | $16,174wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370wins | $64,909 |
| Graduation Rate | 78.5%wins | 78.3% |
| Retention Rate | 86.2% | 90.3%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1wins | 22:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,593 | 33,654wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, San Diego State edges out American University on 5 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
American University Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1450
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $77,370
- ✓Graduation Rate: 78.5%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1
San Diego State Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 34.4%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,174
- ✓Retention Rate: 90.3%
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