Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs UC San Diego

San Luis Obispo, CA · La Jolla, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis ObispoUC San Diego
Acceptance Rate29.8%24.5%
In-State Tuition$11,075$15,265
Out-of-State Tuition$30,995$46,042
Average Net Price$16,888$13,293
Graduation Rate85.0%88.0%

GradFax Analysis

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo accepts 29.8% of applicants. UC San Diego accepts 24.5%. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo's in-state tuition is $11,075. UC San Diego's is $15,265. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is cheaper. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates 85% of students in 6 years. UC San Diego graduates 88%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $16,888/year at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and $13,293/year at UC San Diego. UC San Diego is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo profileUC San Diego profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or UC San Diego?

UC San Diego. It accepts 24.5% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or UC San Diego more affordable?

UC San Diego, on average. After aid, students pay $13,293/year versus $16,888/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

UC San Diego: 88% of students finish in 6 years. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is at 85%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs UC San Diego: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax