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George Mason University vs George Washington University

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

22
George Wins
5
Tied / N/A
19
George Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Mid-Atlantic
27,752
Enrollment
11,182
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

87%
Acceptance Rate
47%
1274
SAT Average
1433
28
ACT Midpoint
32
1160-1360
SAT Range
1350-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$14,220
In-State Tuition
$67,710
$38,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,710
$17,915
Average Net Price
$36,586
$11,942
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$17,440
$12,093
Net Price ($30-48K)
$17,292
$15,224
Net Price ($48-75K)
$22,080
$25,894
Net Price ($110K+)
$55,337
30%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
32%

Academics

69%
Graduation Rate
85%
86%
Retention Rate
92%
53%
Full-Time Faculty
49%
$14,486
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,784
30%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

56%
Female
63%
32%
White
48%
18%
Hispanic
14%
13%
Black
8%
23%
Asian
16%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$60,536
Earnings (6yr)
$71,607
$68,053
Earnings (8yr)
$78,974
$76,343
Earnings (10yr)
$90,873
$19,500
Median Debt
$20,449
0.26x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.23x
77%
Earning Above HS
82%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

309.01%
Mobility Rate
215.66%
5028.1%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4225.2%
614.6%
From Bottom 20%
510.4%
$107,500
Parent Median Income
$137,300

Social Capital

1.75
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.01
Friending Bias
0.02
7.0%
Volunteering Rate
12.5%

Research (Times HE)

#301-350
World Rank
#95
29.3
Teaching Score
60.6
17.7
Research Score
43.1
42.6
Citations Score
70.2

The Overviews

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public

87% accept 69% grad $76,343 earnings $17,915 net

With an enrollment of over 27,000 students, George Mason University is a solid choice for those looking for a diverse and accessible educational environment. The school has an acceptance rate of 87%, making it a fitting option for students who want to further their education without the pressure of highly competitive admissions. Popular areas of study include Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Criminal Justice, Health Professions, and Social Sciences, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations.

Looking at life after graduation, the average earnings for alumni 10 years out is $76,343. That’s a good benchmark for understanding potential financial outcomes. While the graduation rate sits at 69%, many graduates find themselves on solid career paths, especially in fields like health and technology. Affordability plays a role here too, with a net price of about $17,915 after aid, which can help keep student debt manageable.

When it comes to financial responsibility, students at George Mason typically graduate with a median debt of $19,500, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This balance of cost and potential earnings suggests that those who thrive here are often motivated, career-oriented individuals focused on practical degrees. With its supportive community and strong academic programs, George Mason University positions students well for a successful future.

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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