California State University-San Marcos acceptance rate
California State University-San Marcos has a school-wide acceptance rate of 95%, which makes it accessible (admits most applicants).
Published tuition & fees: $8,082 in-state, $20,682 out-of-state. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for California State University-San Marcos
This school is test-blind or test-optional in the federal data (no published SAT/ACT middle-50% range). Many applicants apply without scores.
California State University-San Marcos cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $6,230/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $7,240/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $8,928/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $12,525/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,734/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
California State University-San Marcos has a graduation rate of 55% and graduates earn a median of $62,908 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is California State University-San Marcos's acceptance rate?
About 95% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — accessible (admits most applicants).
How much does California State University-San Marcos cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $8,928/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is California State University-San Marcos a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →