College Comparison
San Diego State University vs University of South Carolina-Columbia: 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
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | San Diego State | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 34.4%wins | 61.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1180–1380wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 26–32 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $20,170wins | $34,934 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,174wins | $24,532 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,909wins | $62,177 |
| Graduation Rate | 78.3%wins | 77.8% |
| Retention Rate | 90.3% | 90.7%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 22:1 | 18:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 33,654wins | 28,113 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, San Diego State edges out South Carolina on 6 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $64,909
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1180–1380
- ✓Retention Rate: 90.7%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 18:1
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