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Fairfield University vs Washington and Lee University

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

11
Fairfield Wins
7
Tied / N/A
24
Washington Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Town
New England
Region
Southeast
5,373
Enrollment
1,881
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1335
SAT Average
1498
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1260-1390
SAT Range
1430-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$68,045
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,045
$48,095
Average Net Price
$23,781
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-1,777
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$75
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,497
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$40,646
7%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
94%
91%
Retention Rate
97%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,155
17%
First-Gen Students
N/A

Student Body

65%
Female
44%
79%
White
68%
9%
Hispanic
9%
1%
Black
5%
2%
Asian
5%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.52

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$76,516
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$89,772
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$94,810
$26,000
Median Debt
$19,500
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
85%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
57.09%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5102.3%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
111.9%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$226,700

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.03
Friending Bias
0.00
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

The Overviews

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · Private nonprofit

33% accept 84% grad $88,794 earnings $48,095 net

Fairfield University has an impressive graduation rate of 84%, indicating that most students successfully complete their degrees. This high rate suggests a strong support system and engaged faculty, which helps students navigate their academic journey.

According to Opportunity Insights data, Fairfield's graduates earn a median income of $88,794 ten years after enrollment. This figure points to the university’s effectiveness in preparing students for the job market, particularly in fields like Business, Health Professions, and Communications. While the Pell Grant rate stands at 7%, indicating limited access for low-income students, the potential for upward mobility remains significant for those who do enroll.

The cost of attending Fairfield is notable, with a net price of $48,095 and a median debt of $26,000. Students who thrive here are often those pursuing careers in high-demand sectors, leveraging the university's strong programs in Business and Health Professions. Graduates leave with solid earning potential, which helps to mitigate the financial burden of their education.

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 94% grad $94,810 earnings $23,781 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Washington and Lee University draws students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply in their studies. This private institution, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Physical Sciences. If you’re looking for a place that encourages critical thinking and a close-knit community, this might just be the right fit for you.

Graduates from Washington and Lee see impressive earnings, with a median income of $94,810 ten years after graduation. This kind of financial outcome suggests that students who excel here are well-prepared for the job market and often find themselves in higher-paying positions. The strong graduation rate of 94% also points to a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

When it comes to the practicalities of attending Washington and Lee, the net price after aid stands at $23,781, which is relatively manageable given the high earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $19,500, students can graduate with a reasonable amount of loans, especially considering the high salaries many alumni achieve. Those who thrive here are typically driven, engaged, and ready to make the most of their educational experience.

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