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George Washington University vs University of California-San Diego

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

9
George Wins
15
Tied / N/A
22
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Far West
11,182
Enrollment
34,948
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
27%
1433
SAT Average
N/A
32
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1350-1500
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$16,758
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$50,958
$36,586
Average Net Price
$12,470
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,525
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$8,155
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,942
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,785
16%
Pell Grant Rate
34%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
21%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
87%
92%
Retention Rate
94%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$19,117
16%
First-Gen Students
40%

Student Body

63%
Female
52%
48%
White
17%
14%
Hispanic
27%
8%
Black
2%
16%
Asian
35%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$65,669
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$77,893
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$84,943
$20,449
Median Debt
$15,500
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
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
1.83
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.00
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
12.1%

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.

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · Public

27% accept 87% grad $84,943 earnings $12,470 net

The University of California-San Diego has an impressive graduation rate of 87%. This high percentage reflects the school's commitment to student success and academic support. It stands out in California's competitive higher education landscape, making it an attractive option for many students.

According to the Chetty/Opportunity Insights data, UC San Diego graduates have a 10-year earning potential of $84,943. This earning figure positions the university as a strong pathway for upward mobility, especially for students from lower-income backgrounds. The data indicates that a significant portion of graduates experience substantial economic advancement post-graduation.

Practical considerations are also favorable. The net price for attending UC San Diego is $12,470, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other institutions. Graduates leave with a median debt of $15,500, which is manageable given their earning potential. Students who thrive here often pursue degrees in Biology, Engineering, Social Sciences, Psychology, and Computer Science, fields that are in high demand in today's job market.

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