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George Washington University vs Lehigh University

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

17
George Wins
7
Tied / N/A
22
Lehigh Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
11,182
Enrollment
5,898
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
26%
1433
SAT Average
1440
32
ACT Midpoint
32
1350-1500
SAT Range
1370-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$64,980
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$64,980
$36,586
Average Net Price
$36,931
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$16,917
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$17,140
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$18,722
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,751
16%
Pell Grant Rate
18%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
37%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
89%
92%
Retention Rate
94%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
85%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,219
16%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

63%
Female
45%
48%
White
60%
14%
Hispanic
11%
8%
Black
5%
16%
Asian
11%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.61

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$88,810
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$97,731
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$105,584
$20,449
Median Debt
$21,960
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
82%
Earning Above HS
90%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
187.40%
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5702.7%
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
328.6%
$137,300
Parent Median Income
$138,300

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.02
Friending Bias
0.01
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
4.9%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#301-350
60.6
Teaching Score
20.2
43.1
Research Score
18.1
70.2
Citations Score
44.9

The Overviews

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.

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · Private nonprofit

26% accept 89% grad $105,584 earnings $36,931 net

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, is a great fit for students who are looking for a balance of academic rigor and a vibrant campus life. With an acceptance rate of 26%, it attracts motivated individuals who are interested in fields like Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Computer Science. The strong emphasis on these programs means students can expect a well-rounded education that prepares them for today’s job market.

After graduation, Lehigh alumni see impressive earnings, with a median salary of $105,584 just ten years post-degree. This figure highlights the university's strong return on investment for graduates, especially in high-demand fields. While the affordability of higher education is a concern for many, the net price here is $36,931 after financial aid, making it a manageable option for those willing to invest in their future.

On the financial side, graduates typically carry a median debt of $21,960, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This manageable debt load means that many students can thrive here, particularly those who are proactive about their education and take advantage of the resources available. Lehigh is especially welcoming to students who are ready to engage deeply with both their studies and the community.

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