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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs George Washington University

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

22
California Wins
16
Tied / N/A
8
George Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Far West
Region
Mid-Atlantic
21,996
Enrollment
11,182
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

31%
Acceptance Rate
47%
N/A
SAT Average
1433
N/A
ACT Midpoint
32
N/A
SAT Range
1350-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,596
In-State Tuition
$67,710
$34,665
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,710
$16,665
Average Net Price
$36,586
$7,529
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$17,440
$7,253
Net Price ($30-48K)
$17,292
$9,896
Net Price ($48-75K)
$22,080
$27,772
Net Price ($110K+)
$55,337
19%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
25%
Federal Loan Rate
32%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
85%
96%
Retention Rate
92%
69%
Full-Time Faculty
49%
$12,673
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,784
25%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

50%
Female
63%
48%
White
48%
25%
Hispanic
14%
1%
Black
8%
14%
Asian
16%
0.68
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$72,358
Earnings (6yr)
$71,607
$82,835
Earnings (8yr)
$78,974
$90,768
Earnings (10yr)
$90,873
$18,500
Median Debt
$20,449
0.2x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.23x
79%
Earning Above HS
82%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
215.66%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4225.2%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
510.4%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$137,300

Social Capital

1.85
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.01
Friending Bias
0.02
7.0%
Volunteering Rate
12.5%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#95
N/A
Teaching Score
60.6
N/A
Research Score
43.1
N/A
Citations Score
70.2

The Overviews

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · Public

31% accept 86% grad $90,768 earnings $16,665 net

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has an impressive graduation rate of 86%. This high rate indicates strong student support and engagement, contributing to a successful academic environment. With nearly 22,000 students, Cal Poly combines a vibrant campus life with a commitment to academic excellence.

Graduates from Cal Poly earn a median salary of $90,768 ten years post-graduation. This figure reflects the effectiveness of the university's programs in preparing students for the workforce. Although the Pell Grant rate is 19%, the university's focus on practical, career-oriented education significantly enhances economic mobility for many students.

The cost of attendance is relatively affordable, with a net price of $16,665 and a median debt of $18,500. This financial structure positions Cal Poly as a viable option for students seeking quality education without overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here are often those interested in fields like engineering, business, and computer science, where hands-on experience and industry connections are paramount.

George Washington University

Washington, DC · Private nonprofit

47% accept 85% grad $90,873 earnings $36,586 net

George Washington University reports a striking graduation rate of 85%. This figure reflects the university's commitment to student success and its supportive academic environment. With a significant portion of students completing their degrees, GWU stands out for those seeking reliable pathways to graduation.

The earnings potential for graduates is compelling. Alumni earn an average of $90,873 within ten years of graduation. This income level positions graduates well within the job market, contributing to long-term financial stability. Although specific mobility data is not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are likely to improve their economic circumstances through their education at GWU.

The net price for attending George Washington University is $36,586, with a median debt of $20,449. This balance makes it an appealing choice for students who can manage costs while aiming for solid post-graduate earnings. GWU attracts those interested in fields like social sciences, health professions, and business, where graduates find ample opportunities to thrive in Washington, D.C.'s dynamic job market.

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