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Colby College vs University of Virginia-Main Campus

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

12
Colby Wins
9
Tied / N/A
21
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Town
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Southeast
2,407
Enrollment
17,597
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

7%
Acceptance Rate
17%
1501
SAT Average
1480
33
ACT Midpoint
34
1460-1550
SAT Range
1410-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$69,600
In-State Tuition
$21,803
$69,600
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,512
$17,180
Average Net Price
$21,565
$4,049
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,174
$1,251
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,696
$3,666
Net Price ($48-75K)
$13,283
$46,511
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,402
14%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
9%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
95%
94%
Retention Rate
98%
93%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$13,207
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,428
11%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

57%
Female
55%
55%
White
49%
8%
Hispanic
8%
5%
Black
8%
10%
Asian
20%
0.66
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$60,052
Earnings (6yr)
$72,359
$68,015
Earnings (8yr)
$80,156
$80,490
Earnings (10yr)
$86,863
$19,157
Median Debt
$17,500
0.24x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
78%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

90.38%
Mobility Rate
N/A
6082.8%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
148.6%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$208,700
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.83
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
9.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.6%

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.

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

17% accept 95% grad $86,863 earnings $21,565 net

With an acceptance rate of just 17%, the University of Virginia-Main Campus attracts students who are ready for an academically rigorous environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in a wide range of disciplines, particularly in humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and computer science. Students here are not just looking for a degree; they’re aiming for a transformative college experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

After graduation, students typically see solid returns on their investment. With a median earning of $86,863 ten years post-graduation, many graduates find themselves in a stable financial position. The affordable net price of $21,565 means that with careful planning and support, students can graduate with manageable debt, averaging around $17,500. This financial outlook is encouraging, especially for those who may worry about student loans impacting their future.

Ultimately, the practical aspects of attending UVA-Main Campus play a crucial role in student success. With a supportive environment, it’s a place where driven students can thrive, particularly those who are proactive about taking advantage of the resources available. This community fosters not just academic excellence but also personal growth, making it a smart choice for those ready to engage deeply in their education.

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