Head-to-head · 2026
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs San Jose State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, 3 for San Jose State University — even split.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Jose State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 13.62 | 14.35 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,665 | $13,760 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $90,768 ✓ | $78,988 |
| Acceptance rate | 31.3% ✓ | 84.6% |
| Graduation rate | 86.4% ✓ | 69.2% |
| Median debt | $18,500 | $15,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 21,996 | 27,601 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 3 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo costs $2,905 more per year than San Jose State University ($16,665 vs $13,760). California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates report $11,780 higher median earnings after ten years ($90,768 vs $78,988). On EduGradify's model that puts San Jose State University ahead on projected ROI (14.35 vs 13.62, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (San Jose State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is selective at 31.3% acceptance versus 84.6% (accessible) at San Jose State University.
Frequently asked
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs San Jose State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or San Jose State University the better value?
San Jose State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.35 vs 13.62), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
San Jose State University is cheaper — average net price $13,760 per year vs $16,665 at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. The annual difference of $2,905 adds up to about $11,620 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $90,768 vs $78,988 at San Jose State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $11,780.
Which school is harder to get into?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is more selective at 31.3% acceptance vs 84.6% at San Jose State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo reports a A value grade; San Jose State University reports A.