College Comparison
Stanford 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
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
School
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Stanford | San Diego State |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.9%wins | 34.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,484 | $20,170wins |
| Avg Net Price | $12,136wins | $16,174 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $124,080wins | $64,909 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.8%wins | 78.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 90.3% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 22:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,841 | 33,654wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Stanford edges out San Diego 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
San Diego State Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,654
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