* Academic reputation: UCSB is ranked 28th among national universities by U.S. News & World Report. SDSU is ranked 111th.
* Student selectivity: UCSB has a lower acceptance rate than SDSU (28% vs. 33%).
* Faculty resources: UCSB has a higher faculty-to-student ratio than SDSU (18:1 vs. 21:1).
* Research funding: UCSB receives more research funding than SDSU ($279 million vs. $125 million).
* Graduate programs: UCSB offers more graduate programs than SDSU (150 vs. 110).
* Location: UCSB is located in Santa Barbara, a beautiful coastal city with a Mediterranean climate. SDSU is located in San Diego, a large city with a diverse population.
San Diego State University
* Affordability: SDSU is more affordable than UCSB (in-state tuition and fees are $14,126 vs. $29,754).
* Diversity: SDSU has a more diverse student body than UCSB (53% non-white students vs. 38%).
* Campus life: SDSU has a more vibrant campus life than UCSB, with more student organizations, clubs, and activities.
* Athletics: SDSU has a more successful athletic program than UCSB, with more NCAA championships and conference titles.
* Location: SDSU is located in San Diego, a large city with a diverse population and a strong economy.