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Colby College vs Fordham University

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

18
Colby Wins
4
Tied / N/A
20
Fordham Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
2,407
Enrollment
10,512
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

7%
Acceptance Rate
59%
1501
SAT Average
1418
33
ACT Midpoint
32
1460-1550
SAT Range
1320-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$69,600
In-State Tuition
$64,915
$69,600
Out-of-State Tuition
$64,915
$17,180
Average Net Price
$44,338
$4,049
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$32,474
$1,251
Net Price ($30-48K)
$31,657
$3,666
Net Price ($48-75K)
$37,313
$46,511
Net Price ($110K+)
$52,228
14%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
9%
Federal Loan Rate
47%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
81%
94%
Retention Rate
89%
93%
Full-Time Faculty
100%
$13,207
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,236
11%
First-Gen Students
18%

Student Body

57%
Female
61%
55%
White
44%
8%
Hispanic
21%
5%
Black
7%
10%
Asian
13%
0.66
Diversity Index
0.73

Outcomes

$60,052
Earnings (6yr)
$68,008
$68,015
Earnings (8yr)
$75,002
$80,490
Earnings (10yr)
$85,569
$19,157
Median Debt
$24,300
0.24x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
78%
Earning Above HS
79%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

90.38%
Mobility Rate
397.82%
6082.8%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5209.4%
148.6%
From Bottom 20%
763.7%
$208,700
Parent Median Income
$113,300

Social Capital

1.83
Economic Connectedness
1.85
0.00
Friending Bias
0.01
9.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.8%

The Overviews

Colby College

Waterville, ME · Private nonprofit

7% accept 89% grad $80,490 earnings $17,180 net

With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Colby College is tailored for students who thrive in a highly selective environment and are eager to dive into topics like Social Sciences, Psychology, Biology, and Computer Science. It’s a small community of about 2,407 students, making it easier to form close connections with peers and professors alike. Those who choose Colby are often passionate about their fields and want to engage deeply in their studies.

Looking at life after graduation, alumni report impressive earnings, with a 10-year median income of $80,490. This suggests that a Colby education can lead to solid financial outcomes, helping graduates secure well-paying jobs. The affordability factor is also notable; with a net price of $17,180, many students find that they can graduate without being burdened by excessive debt, as the median debt sits at $19,157. This balance helps foster mobility for those who want to move up in their careers.

The numbers tell a clear story: Colby is not just about getting a degree but about setting up students for success in the real world. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating that support is available for those who need it, the overall environment tends to attract highly motivated individuals. Those who thrive here share a commitment to their studies and benefit from both a strong academic foundation and a supportive community.

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · Private nonprofit

59% accept 81% grad $85,569 earnings $44,338 net

With an enrollment of over 10,500 students, Fordham University in the Bronx, NY, caters to those who are serious about their education and looking for a vibrant campus life. The acceptance rate of 59% suggests that while it's competitive, many students have the chance to join a community that values diverse perspectives. Popular areas of study include Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics, Psychology, and Communications, making it an attractive choice for students pursuing both practical and theoretical knowledge.

After graduation, alumni can expect to earn an average of $85,569 within ten years, which reflects the solid grounding they receive in their respective fields. While the details on mobility and economic connectedness aren’t available, it’s clear that a Fordham degree can open doors for many students. The affordability aspect is also worth noting, as it allows for a good return on investment, especially when considering the earnings potential.

The net price after aid stands at $44,338, and with a median debt of $24,300, many graduates find themselves in a manageable financial situation as they start their careers. Students who thrive here tend to be those who actively engage with the community, seek out internships, and take advantage of networking opportunities. Fordham’s supportive environment encourages personal and professional growth, making it a solid choice for those ready to invest in their future.

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