Academic Comparison between Palo Alto and Fresno State

Palo Alto University and California State University-San Marcos are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Palo Alto is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Palo Alto, CA and Fresno State is a four-year, public school located in San Marcos, CA.

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Palo Alto Universityvs.California State University-San Marcos
Palo Alto, CaliforniaLocationSan Marcos, California
Four-year, Private (not-for-profit)School Typefour-year, Public
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Other health professions schoolCarnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (larger programs)
$24,6042025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$8,082
Out-Of-State$20,682
50%% Receiving Financial Aid63%
$10,365Average Amount of Financial Aid$11,025
-Acceptance Rates95.10 %
-Yield (Enrollment Rates)13.99 %
-SAT Score-
-ACT Score-
-Graduation Rate55 %
-Transfer-out Rate4 %
-Retention Rate79 %
1,065Student Population16,237
46Number of Faculties416
15 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio24 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), Weekend/Evening CollegeSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling serviceOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare