College Comparison
Caltech 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
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
School
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | San Diego State |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 34.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $20,170wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902 | $16,174wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $64,909 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 78.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 90.3% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 22:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 33,654wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out San Diego State on 5 of 8 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.
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
- ✓Graduation Rate: 93.2%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
San Diego State Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,174
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,654
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