Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

San Diego State University vs UC Santa Barbara

San Diego, CA · Santa Barbara, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

San Diego State UniversityUC Santa Barbara
Acceptance Rate34.4%27.8%
In-State Tuition$8,290$14,965
Out-of-State Tuition$20,170$45,742
Average Net Price$19,500$15,283
Graduation Rate78.0%85.0%

GradFax Analysis

San Diego State University accepts 34.4% of applicants. UC Santa Barbara accepts 27.8%. San Diego State University's in-state tuition is $8,290. UC Santa Barbara's is $14,965. San Diego State University is cheaper. San Diego State University graduates 78% of students in 6 years. UC Santa Barbara graduates 85%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $19,500/year at San Diego State University and $15,283/year at UC Santa Barbara. UC Santa Barbara is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →San Diego State University profileUC Santa Barbara profile

Common Questions

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

UC Santa Barbara. It accepts 27.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

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

UC Santa Barbara, on average. After aid, students pay $15,283/year versus $19,500/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

UC Santa Barbara: 85% of students finish in 6 years. San Diego State University is at 78%.

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.

San Diego State University vs UC Santa Barbara: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax