Palomar Academic Snapshot

Tuition Overview:

  • In-State Tuition: $1,354
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $10,650
  • Both in-state and out-of-state tuition are relatively affordable compared to national averages.

Student Population at Palomar:

  • Total Enrollment: 19,550, including 5,246 online students
  • All Undergraduate
  • Gender Distribution: 53.9% men, 46.1% women.
  • This is a large institution, providing extensive academic options and vibrant campus life.

Graduation & Retention Rate

  • Graduation Rate: 38%. Lower graduation rate, which may reflect challenges in student retention or completion.
  • Transfer-Out Rate: 8%. Few students transfer out, suggesting most students remain through graduation.
  • First-Year Retention Rate: 70%. Good retention, typical for many institutions.

Programs & Degrees Offered

  • Programs Offered: 234 academic programs available.
  • Special Programs: Health Professions.
  • Degrees Awarded: Certificate, Associate's.

Palomar Overview

Palomar College (Palomar) is a 2-4 year, public school located in San Marcos, CA. It is classified as suburban-serving Associate's college by Carnegie Classification

The Palomar's tuition & fees is $1,354 for California residents and $10,650 for out-of-state students for the academic year 2024-2025. 45% of the enrolled undergraduates have received grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of $3,553.

The school has a total enrollment of 19,550 and the students to faculty ratio is 25 to 1 (4.00%).

Palomar College is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.

2025 Tuition & Fees and 2026 Estimation

For undergraduate programs, the 2025 tuition & fees of Palomar College is $1,354 for in-state students and $10,650 for out-of-state students.

The estimated 2026 tuition & fees for prospective students is $1,354 for California residents and $10,650 for out-of-state students based on the current year tuition changes from last year.

In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$1,354$10,650
In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$1,354$10,650

The estimation for 2025-2026 tuition costs is based on the cost change rates of last year.


Admission Key Statistics

Graduation Rate »38%
Transfer-out Rate8%
Retention Rate70%(full-time), 39% (part-time)
Student to Faculty Ratio4.00% (25 to 1)
Student Population »19,550 (all undergraduate)
Average Financial Aid »$3,553

Data source: IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), College Scorecard

Learning Opportunities and Campus Services

Palomar College offers online classes (distance learning opportunities) for undergraduate programs.

Special Learning Opportunities at Palomar
Learning Opportunities
ROTCNo
Weekend/Evening CollegeYes
Teacher CertificationNo
Study AbroadYes
On-Campus Services
Academic/career counseling serviceYes
Employment services for studentsYes
Placement services for completersNo
On-campus day care for students' childrenYes

Palomar College Directory Information

Address1140 W. Mission, San Marcos, CA 92069-1487
Phone760-744-1150
WEBSchool's Website
AdmissionAdmission Information
Online ApplicationApply Online
Financial AidDeadlines and Applications
Net Price CalculatorNet Price Calculator
Veterans TuitionVeterans Benefit Information
Disability ServiceDisability Services
School Type2-4 year, public
Carnegie CategoryAssociate Colleges
Highest Degree OfferedAssociate's degree

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