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College Comparison

Yale 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

Yale University

New Haven, CT

School

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricYaleSan Diego State
Acceptance Rate4.5%wins34.4%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$64,700$20,170wins
Avg Net Price$27,818$16,174wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$100,533wins$64,909
Graduation Rate96.3%wins78.3%
Retention Rate99.0%wins90.3%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins22:1
Total Enrollment6,81133,654wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Yale edges out San Diego State on 6 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.

Yale Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1580
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $100,533
  • Graduation Rate: 96.3%

San Diego State Strengths

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

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