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College Comparison

Stanford University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

School

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricStanfordColorado State
Acceptance Rate3.9%wins89.6%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1580winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$62,484$33,751wins
Avg Net Price$12,136wins$20,332
Median Earnings (10 yr)$124,080wins$60,543
Graduation Rate92.8%wins66.9%
Retention Rate97.8%wins84.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins17:1
Total Enrollment7,84125,148wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Stanford edges out Colorado State on 7 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.

Stanford Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
  • Avg Net Price: $12,136
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $124,080

Colorado State Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,751
  • Total Enrollment: 25,148

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