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George Washington University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

16
George Wins
10
Tied / N/A
20
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Great Lakes
11,182
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1433
SAT Average
1427
32
ACT Midpoint
29
1350-1500
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$36,586
Average Net Price
$17,354
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
16%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
89%
92%
Retention Rate
96%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
16%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

63%
Female
53%
48%
White
59%
14%
Hispanic
9%
8%
Black
2%
16%
Asian
11%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$20,449
Median Debt
$20,484
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
82%
Earning Above HS
80%

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
1.78
0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#27
60.6
Teaching Score
74.3
43.1
Research Score
77.3
70.2
Citations Score
90.6

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 Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI · Public

45% accept 89% grad $73,792 earnings $17,354 net

With an enrollment of nearly 37,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a strong choice for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. If you’re interested in fields like Business, Biology, or Computer Science, this school has solid programs that cater to your academic interests. The acceptance rate of 45% suggests a competitive atmosphere, but it’s also a place where students can find community and support among their peers.

Looking at outcomes, graduates from Wisconsin-Madison earn an average of $73,792 within ten years of completing their degree. This strong earning potential points to a positive return on investment for students. With a graduation rate of 89%, most students are not just moving through their programs but are also finding pathways to success after college. The affordability is another key factor, with a net price of $17,354, making it accessible for many families.

When it comes to finances, students graduate with a median debt of $20,484, which is manageable for the earnings they can expect. This balance between cost and potential earnings makes it a pragmatic choice for many. Students who tend to thrive here are those who take advantage of the resources available, engage in their studies, and connect with the vibrant campus life in Madison.

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