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College Comparison

Tulane 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

Tulane University

New Orleans, LA

School

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricTulaneSan Diego State
Acceptance Rate14.6%wins34.4%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1390–1510winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)31–33N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,538$20,170wins
Avg Net Price$43,939$16,174wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$63,268$64,909wins
Graduation Rate88.9%wins78.3%
Retention Rate94.4%wins90.3%
Student–Faculty Ratio8:1wins22:1
Total Enrollment7,75933,654wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Tulane 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.

Tulane Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 14.6%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1390–1510
  • Graduation Rate: 88.9%
  • Retention Rate: 94.4%

San Diego State Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
  • Avg Net Price: $16,174
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $64,909
  • Total Enrollment: 33,654

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