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Bucknell University vs Wellesley College

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

8
Bucknell Wins
6
Tied / N/A
28
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
3,876
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

29%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1410
SAT Average
1520
31
ACT Midpoint
33
1310-1470
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,812
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$67,812
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$40,766
Average Net Price
$25,496
$20,980
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$12,276
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$23,679
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$55,724
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
12%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
35%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
91%
94%
Retention Rate
97%
97%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$13,254
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
12%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

52%
Female
N/A
73%
White
30%
9%
Hispanic
14%
4%
Black
8%
4%
Asian
26%
0.44
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$78,852
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$88,483
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$93,807
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$27,000
Median Debt
$10,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
88%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

146.01%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
5515.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
264.8%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$149,800
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

The Overviews

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · Private nonprofit

29% accept 86% grad $93,807 earnings $40,766 net

With an enrollment of about 3,876 students, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, is an excellent fit for those seeking a close-knit academic community. The school has a 29% acceptance rate, which reflects a selective approach to admissions, and an impressive graduation rate of 86%. Students here typically dive into programs like Social Sciences, Engineering, Business & Marketing, Biology & Biomedical, and Psychology, gaining both depth and breadth in their fields.

After graduation, Bucknell alumni find themselves in strong positions, with earnings averaging $93,807 a decade after they leave. This figure illustrates a solid return on investment for the education received, helping graduates build successful careers. While the median debt stands at $27,000, the balance seems manageable when considering the financial pathways that open up for graduates.

When we look at the cost of attendance, the net price after aid is about $40,766, which can feel significant but is often offset by the financial advantages graduates experience. Students who thrive here generally come with a sense of ambition and a commitment to making the most of the resources available. Bucknell seems to attract those ready to engage deeply in their studies and leverage their education for future success.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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