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Fairfield University vs Wellesley College

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

11
Fairfield Wins
6
Tied / N/A
25
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
New England
5,373
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1335
SAT Average
1520
29
ACT Midpoint
33
1260-1390
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$48,095
Average Net Price
$25,496
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
7%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
91%
91%
Retention Rate
97%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
17%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

65%
Female
N/A
79%
White
30%
9%
Hispanic
14%
1%
Black
8%
2%
Asian
26%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$26,000
Median Debt
$10,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
85%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

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.

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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