SDSU makes list of Money’s ‘Best Colleges in America’

San Diego State University landed a spot in Money magazine’s list of “Best Colleges in America” for 2024, earning 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars.

The ratings of 745 colleges and universities, published June 12, are based on affordability, graduation rates, financial aid and the future employment and earnings of graduates, among other factors. 

Money switched from numerical rankings to a rating system in 2022. 

To make receiving an education more affordable and accessible — one of SDSU’s key initiatives under its strategic plan — SDSU reported in February that it distributed nearly every available dollar of scholarship funds to students for the first time in its 127-year history. And, at just over $8,000 for in-state students, SDSU’s ranks among the best values in the country.

SDSU also announced it reached another student success milestone in the last year. For first-time freshmen, the four-year graduation rate is 57.9%, and the six-year graduation rate is nearly 80% — the university’s highest ever.

SDSU was also included in the magazine's list of the nation’s “Best Public Colleges“ and its list of the “Best Colleges in the West.”

All 23 universities in the California State University system received ratings of 4.0 or better.

“I am extremely proud to see all of the CSU’s 23 universities on Money Magazine’s ‘Best Colleges in America’ ranking,” said CSU Chancellor Mildred García. “While I am very pleased, I am also unsurprised, because the ranking’s criteria reflect the mission and core values of the CSU: authentic access, student success, social mobility, affordability and preparing diverse students for a lifetime of prosperity, fulfillment and service.”