San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · Public · 4-year

San Diego State University has a 34.4% acceptance rate. San Diego State University is a public 4-year institution in San Diego, CA. The average net price is $15,364 per year after financial aid, and it is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education). Data updated April 2026.

Admissions Statistics

Acceptance Rate

34.4%

82,800 applicants

SAT Median

N/A

Combined score

ACT Median

N/A

Composite score

Avg Net Price

$15,364

After financial aid

Student Outcomes

Graduation Rate

77.3%

Retention Rate

90.6%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$64,909

Student Body

35,377

Net Price by Family Income

What students actually pay after grants and scholarships at San Diego State University:

Family IncomeAvg Net Price/Year
$0 – $30,000$9,910
$30,001 – $48,000$10,017
$48,001 – $75,000$12,697
$75,001 – $110,000$15,891
$110,000+$23,821

Top Majors at San Diego State University

MajorDegrees Awarded
Business, Management & Marketing2,332
Psychology669
Social Sciences662
Engineering635
Homeland Security & Criminal Justice542
Communication & Journalism540
Health Professions510
Parks, Recreation & Fitness419
Visual & Performing Arts396
Biological & Biomedical Sciences281

Financial Aid at San Diego State University

About San Diego State University

Official website: https://www.sdsu.edu/

Admissions: https://admissions.sdsu.edu/

Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego State University

What is the acceptance rate at San Diego State University?

San Diego State University has an acceptance rate of 34%. it received about 82,800 applications in a recent year; the average net price is $15,364 per year. Admit Coach estimates your personal odds of admission to San Diego State University for free using your GPA and test scores.

How hard is it to get into San Diego State University?

Getting into San Diego State University is competitive — it admits 34% of applicants. Your odds depend on how your GPA and scores compare to admitted students. Admit Coach calculates your specific chance at San Diego State University for free and labels it a reach, target, or safety school.

How much does it cost to attend San Diego State University?

The average net price at San Diego State University is $15,364 per year after grants and scholarships. about 95% of students receive financial aid; the average grant or scholarship is $5,459 per year. Net price varies by family income — Admit Coach shows the estimate for your specific income bracket.

What is the graduation rate at San Diego State University?

San Diego State University has a graduation rate of 77%. its first-year retention rate is 91%; median earnings 10 years after enrollment are $64,909. These federal outcome metrics let you compare San Diego State University against similar colleges on Admit Coach.

Is San Diego State University test-optional?

For the 2025–26 cycle, San Diego State University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. With a 34% acceptance rate, a strong overall application matters most. Admit Coach factors San Diego State University's testing policy into your free admission-chance estimate.

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Check Your Admission Chances at San Diego State University — Free