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AdmissionsOS

San Jose State University vs University of California-Riverside

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

San Jose State University University of California-Riverside
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 85% 76%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $13,760 $14,304
Sticker cost of attendance $26,593 $38,942
Graduation rate 69% 76%
Retention rate 87% 88%
Undergraduates 27,601 22,593
Student-faculty ratio 25:1 22:1
Setting San Jose, CA Riverside, CA
Type Public Public
Application fee $70 $80
Test policy Test-blind Test-blind

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2026-2027 cycle.

Common questions

Is San Jose State University or University of California-Riverside harder to get into?

University of California-Riverside is more selective, with a 76% acceptance rate versus 85% at San Jose State University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, San Jose State University or University of California-Riverside?

San Jose State University has the lower average net price ($13,760 versus $14,304). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.