Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

San Francisco State University vs Sonoma State University

San Francisco, CA · Rohnert Park, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

San Francisco State UniversitySonoma State University
Acceptance Rate96.1%94.7%
In-State Tuition$7,424$8,190
Out-of-State Tuition$19,304$20,070
Average Net Price$13,353$15,113
Graduation Rate50.0%61.0%

GradFax Analysis

San Francisco State University accepts 96.1% of applicants. Sonoma State University accepts 94.7%. Tuition is close: $7,424 at San Francisco State University, $8,190 at Sonoma State University. San Francisco State University graduates 50% of students in 6 years. Sonoma State University graduates 61%.

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 Francisco State University profileSonoma State University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, San Francisco State University or Sonoma State University?

Sonoma State University. It accepts 94.7% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is San Francisco State University or Sonoma State University more affordable?

San Francisco State University, on average. After aid, students pay $13,353/year versus $15,113/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Sonoma State University: 61% of students finish in 6 years. San Francisco State University is at 50%.

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 Francisco State University vs Sonoma State University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax