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Columbia University in the City of New York vs George Washington University

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

25
Columbia Wins
9
Tied / N/A
12
George Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
8,973
Enrollment
11,182
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
47%
1553
SAT Average
1433
35
ACT Midpoint
32
1510-1580
SAT Range
1350-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,845
In-State Tuition
$67,710
$71,845
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,710
$21,590
Average Net Price
$36,586
$4,570
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$17,440
$2,275
Net Price ($30-48K)
$17,292
$5,866
Net Price ($48-75K)
$22,080
$50,621
Net Price ($110K+)
$55,337
23%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
14%
Federal Loan Rate
32%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
85%
98%
Retention Rate
92%
43%
Full-Time Faculty
49%
$21,516
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,784
25%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

45%
Female
63%
29%
White
48%
15%
Hispanic
14%
8%
Black
8%
19%
Asian
16%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$88,535
Earnings (6yr)
$71,607
$98,435
Earnings (8yr)
$78,974
$102,491
Earnings (10yr)
$90,873
$21,500
Median Debt
$20,449
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.23x
86%
Earning Above HS
82%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

307.36%
Mobility Rate
215.66%
6121.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4225.2%
502.1%
From Bottom 20%
510.4%
$169,600
Parent Median Income
$137,300

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.03
Friending Bias
0.02
10.3%
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

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

4% accept 96% grad $102,491 earnings $21,590 net

Columbia University in the City of New York is an excellent fit for ambitious students who are ready to dive deep into their studies. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, it attracts driven individuals who excel academically. Students here often focus on top programs such as Social Sciences, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Biology & Biomedical, and English & Literature. The tight-knit community and diverse course offerings create an environment where students can thrive.

Life after graduation looks promising for Columbia alumni, with a ten-year earnings average of $102,491. This figure indicates the long-term financial benefits of attending this university. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often find themselves in positions that allow for upward mobility. The high graduation rate of 96% suggests that most students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the support and resources available.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Columbia, the net price after aid is approximately $21,590, which is quite manageable given the high earning potential. With a median debt of $21,500, most graduates come out with a reasonable financial burden. The combination of these factors, along with the strong academic environment, tends to attract students who are not only academically talented but also motivated to make the most of their educational experience.

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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