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College Comparison

San Diego State University vs Auburn 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

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA

School

Auburn University

Auburn, AL

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricSan Diego StateAuburn
Acceptance Rate34.4%wins50.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)N/A1240–1380wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)N/A25–31
Tuition (Out-of-State)$20,170wins$33,944
Avg Net Price$16,174wins$23,897
Median Earnings (10 yr)$64,909$65,337wins
Graduation Rate78.3%79.2%wins
Retention Rate90.3%93.2%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio22:121:1wins
Total Enrollment33,654wins25,732

Verdict

Based on the data above, Auburn edges out San Diego State 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.

San Diego State Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 34.4%
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
  • Avg Net Price: $16,174
  • Total Enrollment: 33,654

Auburn Strengths

  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1240–1380
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $65,337
  • Graduation Rate: 79.2%
  • Retention Rate: 93.2%

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