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Clarkson University vs Princeton University

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

11
Clarkson Wins
8
Tied / N/A
27
Princeton Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
2,196
Enrollment
5,709
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

77%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1304
SAT Average
1553
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1200-1390
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$59,398
In-State Tuition
$62,688
$59,398
Out-of-State Tuition
$62,688
$30,305
Average Net Price
$6,128
$21,335
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$41
$19,934
Net Price ($30-48K)
$352
$23,321
Net Price ($48-75K)
$1,217
$35,757
Net Price ($110K+)
$36,094
22%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
62%
Federal Loan Rate
2%

Academics

74%
Graduation Rate
97%
85%
Retention Rate
98%
78%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$11,357
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,354
15%
First-Gen Students
28%

Student Body

30%
Female
51%
74%
White
34%
13%
Hispanic
10%
3%
Black
9%
2%
Asian
23%
0.43
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$76,970
Earnings (6yr)
$87,815
$78,777
Earnings (8yr)
$112,152
$89,696
Earnings (10yr)
$110,066
$26,000
Median Debt
$10,320
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.09x
86%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

296.70%
Mobility Rate
134.58%
5299.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6586.5%
559.9%
From Bottom 20%
204.3%
$94,600
Parent Median Income
$218,100

Social Capital

1.70
Economic Connectedness
1.88
-0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
5.3%
Volunteering Rate
10.8%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#5
N/A
Teaching Score
90.9
N/A
Research Score
95.4
N/A
Citations Score
99.9

The Overviews

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · Private nonprofit

77% accept 74% grad $89,696 earnings $30,305 net

With an acceptance rate of 77%, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, is a solid choice for students seeking a blend of academic rigor and community feel. It's particularly suitable for those interested in fields like Engineering, Business and Marketing, Biology, Computer Science, and Psychology. The hands-on learning and collaborative environment stand out, making it easier for students to connect their studies to real-world applications.

Looking at what comes after graduation, the average earnings ten years out is $89,696. This figure is telling; it suggests that graduates from Clarkson tend to find good job opportunities that lead to solid financial stability. While the median debt is $26,000, the affordability of education here can help mitigate the long-term financial burden for many students.

When we talk about the practical side of attending Clarkson, the net price after aid hovers around $30,305. This cost is manageable compared to what many private institutions charge, especially when considering the potential return on investment. Students who thrive here are typically those who are proactive, engaged, and eager to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The supportive campus community also plays a role in helping students succeed.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $110,066 earnings $6,128 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Princeton University is not for everyone, but for those who make the cut, it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity. The school attracts bright minds, particularly in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, and Biology. Students here are often deeply engaged in their studies, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. This kind of environment fosters not just learning but also a strong sense of community among peers.

After graduation, the benefits of attending Princeton are clear. Alumni can expect an impressive average earning of $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degrees. This speaks volumes about the value of a Princeton education, especially when considering the high graduation rate of 97%. The school’s focus on producing skilled graduates who excel in their careers contributes significantly to their long-term success.

When it comes to finances, the net price after aid is manageable at $6,128, and the median debt stands at $10,320. This means many graduates leave with a realistic financial outlook, allowing them to focus on their careers rather than being weighed down by overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and campus life.

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