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George Washington University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

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

22
George Wins
13
Tied / N/A
11
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
11,182
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1433
SAT Average
1337
32
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1350-1500
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$36,586
Average Net Price
$32,875
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
16%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
86%
92%
Retention Rate
93%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
16%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

63%
Female
50%
48%
White
63%
14%
Hispanic
9%
8%
Black
5%
16%
Asian
8%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$20,449
Median Debt
$25,000
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
82%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
N/A
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$137,300
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.71
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
N/A
60.6
Teaching Score
N/A
43.1
Research Score
N/A
70.2
Citations Score
N/A

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.

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

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