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Columbia University in the City of New York vs Wellesley College

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

23
Columbia Wins
6
Tied / N/A
13
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
8,973
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1553
SAT Average
1520
35
ACT Midpoint
33
1510-1580
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,845
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$71,845
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$21,590
Average Net Price
$25,496
$4,570
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$2,275
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$5,866
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$50,621
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
23%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
14%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
91%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
43%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$21,516
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
25%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

45%
Female
N/A
29%
White
30%
15%
Hispanic
14%
8%
Black
8%
19%
Asian
26%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$88,535
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$98,435
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$102,491
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$21,500
Median Debt
$10,000
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
86%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

307.36%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
6121.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
502.1%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$169,600
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
10.3%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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