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College Comparison

Stanford University vs Stony Brook 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

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricStanfordStony Brook
Acceptance Rate3.9%wins49.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1580wins1320–1490
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins28–33
Tuition (Out-of-State)$62,484$30,350wins
Avg Net Price$12,136wins$18,430
Median Earnings (10 yr)$124,080wins$74,502
Graduation Rate92.8%wins77.8%
Retention Rate97.8%wins88.7%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins19:1
Total Enrollment7,84117,420wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Stanford edges out Stony Brook on 8 of 10 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
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Avg Net Price: $12,136

Stony Brook Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $30,350
  • Total Enrollment: 17,420

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