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San Jose State University and California State University-Northridge are both public institutions — San Jose State University in San Jose, CA and California State University-Northridge in Northridge, CA. 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.
San Jose, CA · Public
Acceptance rate: 84.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 27,601
Tuition: $21,010/year
Student-faculty ratio: 25.0:1
Graduation rate: 69.2%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Engineering, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in San Jose, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Engineering.
Northridge, CA · Public
Acceptance rate: 93.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 32,691
Tuition: $20,058/year
Student-faculty ratio: 25.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.0%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Communication
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Northridge, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
| Factor | San Jose State University | California State University-Northridge |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 84.6% | 93.5% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 27,601 | 32,691 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,010/year | $20,058/year |
| Average net price after aid | $13,760 | $7,021 |
| Graduation rate | 69.2% | 57.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $78,988 | $59,115 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 25.0:1 | 25.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | San Jose, CA | Northridge, CA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Engineering, Psychology | Business and marketing, Psychology, Communication |
San Jose State University is more selective (84.6% vs 93.5% acceptance rate). California State University-Northridge has a lower average net price after grant aid ($7,021 vs $13,760). San Jose State University reports the higher graduation rate (69.2% vs 57.0%). California State University-Northridge is the larger undergraduate campus (32,691 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 San Jose State University and California State University-Northridge
San Jose State University has an acceptance rate of 84.6%; California State University-Northridge is around 93.5%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
San Jose State University tuition is $21,010/year. California State University-Northridge is $20,058/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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