colorado state university vs arizona state university

Colorado State University vs Arizona State University

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

In the global rankings, ASU generally fares better than CSU. On the QS World University Rankings 2026, ASU is approximately 219th, while CSU ranks at 408th. In the U.S. News National Universities 2025, ASU is 104th, and CSU ranks 148th. While ASU shows specific strength in Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences, CSU excels in niche areas like Veterinary Medicine, Atmospheric Sciences, and Agriculture.

General Information

ASU is significantly larger than CSU, with nearly 80,000 enrolled students on its campuses, while CSU's total enrollment is approximately 33,500. ASU's urban location in Tempe has more than 350 degree programs and allows students to have exposure to a heterogeneous, metropolitan setting. On the other hand, CSU has more than 275 programs and prioritizes more of a campus community environment in Fort Collins, allowing for greater undergraduate involvement.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Admissions at both schools are fairly competitive, with acceptance rates in the neighborhood of 90%. CSU has a slightly greater average ACT range (23–29 compared to ASU's 21–28), while ASU has a slightly wider SAT range (1100–1320 compared to CSU's 1080–1290). CSU's admitted students also typically have a greater average GPA (3.68 compared to ASU's 3.54). Enrollment yield is higher at ASU (22.7% compared to CSU's 16.1%), due to its larger size and wider appeal.

Research Impact & Facilities

Both institutions are R1 classified for very high research activity. ASU's research infrastructure is vast, with more than 4.5 million volumes of libraries and robust interdisciplinary programs, with a strong presence in Sustainability and Engineering. CSU, at around 2.4 million library volumes, provides specialized research prospects in Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture, and Atmospheric Sciences. Although ASU enjoys economies of scale and diversity, CSU focuses on individualized undergraduate research experiences.

Cost & Financial Aid

CSU's in-state fee is $13,373 and out-of-state is $34,751, with ASU's costs being slightly less at $11,308 in-state and $31,450 out-of-state. On average, ASU offers more financial aid with students receiving around $11,992 compared to CSU's $10,554. A greater proportion of ASU students are also aided (89% vs. 71%), making ASU relatively more affordable, particularly for in-state students.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

Graduates at both universities have comparable career destinations. ASU graduates have a slightly higher median income ($52,600 compared to CSU's $51,800), although CSU has a more robust six-year graduation rate (64% compared to ASU's 57%). ASU's large alumni base is most actively engaged in Business, Technology, and Education, capitalizing on its Phoenix base to secure industry connections. CSU alumni are most prominent in Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture, and regional industries, with close connections to Colorado's industries.