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College Comparison

University of Massachusetts-Amherst 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

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA

School

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricUMass AmherstSan Diego State
Acceptance Rate57.8%34.4%wins
SAT Range (25th–75th)1300–1480winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)29–33N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$39,293$20,170wins
Avg Net Price$23,691$16,174wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$71,631wins$64,909
Graduation Rate83.2%wins78.3%
Retention Rate91.0%wins90.3%
Student–Faculty Ratio18:1wins22:1
Total Enrollment23,69433,654wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, UMass Amherst 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.

UMass Amherst Strengths

  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1480
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $71,631
  • Graduation Rate: 83.2%
  • Retention Rate: 91.0%

San Diego State Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 34.4%
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $20,170
  • Avg Net Price: $16,174
  • Total Enrollment: 33,654

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