San Jose State University
San Jose State University has an acceptance rate of 84.6%, annual tuition of $8,410, average net price of $13,760, and a national rank of #149 (Grade A-), with a 69.2% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 27,601 undergraduates, and median earnings of $89,614 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
San Jose State University is a public university in San Jose, CA. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.
Day to day, students benefit from a 25:1 student-faculty ratio, and 86.8% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 132.1%, roughly 82.2 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and career-focused learners aiming for high-impact outcomes.
Who is San Jose State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
San Jose State University graduates 69.2% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 77.8% and keeps 86.8% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use San Jose State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $8,410 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,062 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $20,971 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,446 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,593 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 35.2% of San Jose State University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $9,730 to $22,862 depending on family income. Use San Jose State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $15,102/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $22,862/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $89,614
- 10-Year Median Earnings $78,988
- Average Years to Graduate 4.9 years
- Average Student Debt $15,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 74.3%
- Employment Rate 91.5%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for San Jose State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
San Jose State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how San Jose State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes San Jose State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: San Jose State University graduates report median earnings of $89,614 four years after graduation, +48% above the national median. The 132.1% ROI indicates solid long-term value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 27,601
- Full-Time Students 82.1%
- Part-Time Students 17.9%
- Retention Rate 86.8%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 69.2%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 77.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 25:1
How to Get Into San Jose State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: San Jose State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 84.6%, San Jose State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 84.6% acceptance rate, San Jose State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among San Jose State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Psychology, General, and Computer Engineering draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 22.8%
- Psychology, General 6.3%
- Computer Engineering 4.1%
- Fine and Studio Arts 4.1%
- Communication and Media Studies 4.0%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 3.6%
See more majors
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 3.4%
- Public Health 3.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $160,714
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $155,843
- 3. Computer Engineering $143,080
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $119,589
- 5. Chemical Engineering $115,218
- 6. Mechanical Engineering $112,360
- 7. Human Resources Management and Services $108,084
- 8. Civil Engineering $106,415
- 9. Management Information Systems and Services $104,129
- 10. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $101,217
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $151,760
- 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degree) $116,237
- 3. Civil Engineering (Master's Degree) $114,115
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $111,358
- 5. Social Work (Master's Degree) $102,199
- 6. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $99,007
- 7. City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning (Master's Degree) $91,624
- 8. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $89,920
- 9. Student Counseling and Personnel Services (Master's Degree) $82,798
- 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $81,942
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $160,714—59% more than Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering ($101,217). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $151,760 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for San Jose State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 1,548 graduates)
- Computer Engineering (Master's Degree, 563 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 428 graduates)
- Fine and Studio Arts (Bachelor's Degree, 280 graduates)
- Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degree, 276 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (75 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Psychology, General
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Computer Engineering
- Communication and Media Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Public Health
- Mechanical Engineering
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Computer Science
- Biology, General
- Design and Applied Arts
- Civil Engineering
- Economics
- Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Political Science and Government
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Social Work
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Industrial Engineering
- Nutrition Sciences
- Applied Mathematics
- Air Transportation
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Behavioral Sciences
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Chemical Engineering
- History
- Music
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
- Journalism
- Security Science and Technology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Materials Engineering
- International/Global Studies
- Anthropology
- Human Resources Management and Services
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Dance
- Philosophy
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Social Sciences, General
- Physics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Geography and Cartography
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Psychology, Other
- Natural Sciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering, General
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
Online Master's Degrees (64 programs)▼
- Computer Engineering
- Education, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Social Work
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Public Health
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Industrial Engineering
- Biology, General
- Statistics
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Public Administration
- Psychology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Taxation
- Engineering, General
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Accounting and Related Services
- Human Computer Interaction
- Communication and Media Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- History
- Nutrition Sciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Economics
- Anthropology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Music
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Philosophy
- Marine Sciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Geography and Cartography
- Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
- Natural Sciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 27,601
- Full-Time Students 82.1%
- Part-Time Students 17.9%
- Male Students 52.3%
- Female Students 47.7%
- Caucasian 12.3%
- Asian 38.8%
- Hispanic 32.5%
- Black 3.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients 35.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects San Jose State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of San Jose State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does San Jose State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at San Jose State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: San Jose State University has a diverse student body, with 12.3% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does San Jose State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at San Jose State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
San Jose State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #149 nationally with a 132.1% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $13,760 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $89,614 median earnings. The 69.2% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 86.8% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: San Jose State University's Strengths
Ranked #149 with a A- grade, San Jose State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like San Jose State University excel at providing affordable education ($13,760 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: San Jose State University's 86.8% retention and 69.2% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($89,614 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, San Jose State University's 132.1% ROI and $13,760 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 69.2% graduation rate sits 6.7 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 86.8% first-year retention is 10.0 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 132.1% return on investment is 82.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $89,614 run about 48% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $13,760 is roughly $6,319 lower than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 25:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 86.8% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.5% employment rate within three years sits 23.3 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
San Jose State University is a public university based in San Jose, CA and earns a A- overall grade. It stands at #149 among 1962 schools Category results include Completion (A-), Support (C+), Career Outcomes (A), and Affordability (B+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 86.8% of first-year students return; 69.2% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 77.8%. The reported ROI is 132.1%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $13,760 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,593.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $12,833 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 35.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $89,614 four years after graduation. Compared with the national median, that's 48% higher.
The three-year employment rate is close to 91.5%.
The ROI comes in near 132.1%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
84.6% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the San Jose State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Jose State University's acceptance rate?
San Jose State University's acceptance rate is 84.6%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does San Jose State University cost?
At San Jose State University, listed tuition and fees are $8,410 per year, and the average net price after aid is $13,760. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is San Jose State University's ranking?
San Jose State University ranks #149 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is San Jose State University's graduation rate?
At San Jose State University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 69.2% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 77.8%, and first-year retention is 86.8%.
What are San Jose State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of San Jose State University report median earnings of $89,614 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is San Jose State University's student population?
San Jose State University enrolls about 27,601 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address San Jose, CA 95192-0186
- Website www.sjsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
- Endowment$182.6M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate3.8%