Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

San Diego State University vs UC San Diego

San Diego, CA · La Jolla, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

San Diego State UniversityUC San Diego
Acceptance Rate36.2%26.7%
In-State Tuition$8,728$16,758
Out-of-State Tuition$21,328$50,958
Average Net Price$14,704$14,047
Graduation Rate76.0%86.0%
Total Enrollment41,13744,256
Student-Faculty Ratio2719

GradFax Analysis

San Diego State University accepts 36.2% of applicants. UC San Diego accepts 26.7%. San Diego State University's in-state tuition is $8,728. UC San Diego's is $16,758. San Diego State University is cheaper. San Diego State University graduates 76% of students in 6 years. UC San Diego graduates 86%.

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 San Diego profile

Common Questions

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

UC San Diego. It accepts 26.7% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is San Diego State University or UC San Diego more affordable?

UC San Diego, on average. After aid, students pay $14,047/year versus $14,704/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

UC San Diego: 86% 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.