California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and California State University-San Marcos are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public and located in California
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | vs. | California State University-San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| San Luis Obispo, California | Location | San Marcos, California |
| Four-year, Public | School Type | four-year, Public |
| Master's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Master's College and University (larger programs) | Carnegie Classification | Master's College and University (larger programs) |
In-State$12,161
Out-Of-State$33,230 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | In-State$8,082
Out-Of-State$20,682 |
| 52% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 63% |
| $12,264 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $11,025 |
| 31.32 % | Acceptance Rates | 95.10 % |
| 24.61 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 13.99 % |
| - | SAT Score | - |
| - | ACT Score | - |
| 86 % | Graduation Rate | 55 % |
| 1 % | Transfer-out Rate | 4 % |
| 96 % | Retention Rate | 79 % |
| 23,069 | Student Population | 16,237 |
| 931 | Number of Faculties | 416 |
| 19 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 24 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare |