Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

San Diego State University vs UC Irvine

San Diego, CA · Irvine, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

San Diego State UniversityUC Irvine
Acceptance Rate36.2%28.6%
In-State Tuition$8,728$15,722
Out-of-State Tuition$21,328$49,922
Average Net Price$14,704$15,889
Graduation Rate76.0%87.0%
Total Enrollment41,13737,297
Student-Faculty Ratio2719

GradFax Analysis

San Diego State University accepts 36.2% of applicants. UC Irvine accepts 28.6%. San Diego State University's in-state tuition is $8,728. UC Irvine's is $15,722. San Diego State University is cheaper. San Diego State University graduates 76% of students in 6 years. UC Irvine graduates 87%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →San Diego State University profileUC Irvine profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, San Diego State University or UC Irvine?

UC Irvine. It accepts 28.6% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is San Diego State University or UC Irvine more affordable?

San Diego State University, on average. After aid, students pay $14,704/year versus $15,889/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

UC Irvine: 87% of students finish in 6 years. San Diego State University is at 76%.

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.