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Brown University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

19
Brown Wins
11
Tied / N/A
16
Columbia Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
7,226
Enrollment
8,973
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1546
SAT Average
1553
34
ACT Midpoint
35
1510-1580
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$71,845
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$71,845
$25,184
Average Net Price
$21,590
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,570
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,275
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,866
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$50,621
14%
Pell Grant Rate
23%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
96%
99%
Retention Rate
98%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
43%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$21,516
17%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

54%
Female
45%
33%
White
29%
12%
Hispanic
15%
8%
Black
8%
23%
Asian
19%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$88,535
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$98,435
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$102,491
$11,428
Median Debt
$21,500
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
79%
Earning Above HS
86%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
307.36%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6121.7%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
502.1%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$169,600

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.00
Friending Bias
0.03
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
10.3%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
N/A
59.7
Teaching Score
N/A
57
Research Score
N/A
77.7
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Brown University

Providence, RI · Private nonprofit

5% accept 96% grad $93,487 earnings $25,184 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Brown University in Providence, RI, is a selective option that attracts students driven to excel academically and personally. It’s a place for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to dive into programs like Social Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, Mathematics, and Engineering. The high graduation rate of 96% speaks to the strong support system in place, making it a solid choice for ambitious students.

After graduation, Brown alumni see impressive earning potential, with a median income of $93,487 ten years post-graduation. This financial trajectory suggests that graduates are not just securing jobs, but often moving into roles that reward their hard work. While this school may come with a price tag, the outcomes reflect a community that values education and shapes successful careers.

When it comes to the finances, the net price after aid stands at $25,184, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $11,428. This is encouraging, especially for students who may be concerned about student loans. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated and ready to engage deeply with their studies, taking full advantage of the opportunities that come their way.

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

4% accept 96% grad $102,491 earnings $21,590 net

Columbia University in the City of New York is an excellent fit for ambitious students who are ready to dive deep into their studies. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, it attracts driven individuals who excel academically. Students here often focus on top programs such as Social Sciences, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Biology & Biomedical, and English & Literature. The tight-knit community and diverse course offerings create an environment where students can thrive.

Life after graduation looks promising for Columbia alumni, with a ten-year earnings average of $102,491. This figure indicates the long-term financial benefits of attending this university. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often find themselves in positions that allow for upward mobility. The high graduation rate of 96% suggests that most students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the support and resources available.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Columbia, the net price after aid is approximately $21,590, which is quite manageable given the high earning potential. With a median debt of $21,500, most graduates come out with a reasonable financial burden. The combination of these factors, along with the strong academic environment, tends to attract students who are not only academically talented but also motivated to make the most of their educational experience.

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