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Central Washington University and Washington State University are both public institutions — Central Washington University in Ellensburg, WA and Washington State University in Pullman, WA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Ellensburg, WA · Public
Acceptance rate: 90.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,833
Tuition: $27,526/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 53.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Ellensburg, WA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
Pullman, WA · Public
Acceptance rate: 86.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 21,099
Tuition: $29,950/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 60.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Pullman, WA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
| Factor | Central Washington University | Washington State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 90.6% | 86.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,833 | 21,099 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $27,526/year | $29,950/year |
| Average net price after aid | $18,476 | $14,971 |
| Graduation rate | 53.6% | 60.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $61,580 | $68,905 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Ellensburg, WA | Pullman, WA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Education, Psychology | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Biological sciences |
Washington State University is more selective (86.6% vs 90.6% acceptance rate). Washington State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($14,971 vs $18,476). Washington State University reports the higher graduation rate (60.5% vs 53.6%). Washington State University is the larger undergraduate campus (21,099 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Central Washington University and Washington State University
Central Washington University has an acceptance rate of 90.6%; Washington State University is around 86.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Central Washington University tuition is $27,526/year. Washington State University is $29,950/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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