Skip to content
CollegeRanker

Compare

George Washington University vs Vanderbilt University

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

11
George Wins
6
Tied / N/A
29
Vanderbilt Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Southeast
11,182
Enrollment
7,208
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
6%
1433
SAT Average
1549
32
ACT Midpoint
35
1350-1500
SAT Range
1500-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$67,498
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,498
$36,586
Average Net Price
$15,846
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$3,414
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$1,876
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,498
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$45,145
16%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
10%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
93%
92%
Retention Rate
96%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
85%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,361
16%
First-Gen Students
12%

Student Body

63%
Female
53%
48%
White
39%
14%
Hispanic
11%
8%
Black
9%
16%
Asian
19%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.78

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$73,909
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$84,542
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$91,565
$20,449
Median Debt
$14,000
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.15x
82%
Earning Above HS
82%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
147.18%
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5929.6%
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
248.2%
$137,300
Parent Median Income
$197,900

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.02
Friending Bias
0.01
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
8.3%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#51
60.6
Teaching Score
64.9
43.1
Research Score
59.5
70.2
Citations Score
78.1

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.

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · Private nonprofit

6% accept 93% grad $91,565 earnings $15,846 net

With an acceptance rate of just 6%, Vanderbilt University attracts motivated students who are ready to dive into rigorous programs. Located in Nashville, this school is particularly appealing to those interested in Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, Biology, and Psychology. The small enrollment of about 7,200 means students often benefit from smaller class sizes, fostering a close-knit academic community where collaboration thrives.

Looking ahead to life after graduation, Vanderbilt graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $91,565 within ten years. This impressive figure reflects the university's strong emphasis on career readiness and networking opportunities. While the data on mobility isn't available, the high graduation rate of 93% speaks to the support students receive, which can help them move into successful careers.

When it comes to the financial aspect, students can expect a net price of around $15,846 after aid, which is quite manageable given the potential earnings. With a median debt of $14,000, graduates usually leave with a reasonable financial burden. Students who thrive here are often those who are driven, engaged, and ready to leverage the university's resources to achieve their goals.

Sponsored

Compare Accredited Programs Accepting Applicants

Matched to high-demand fields — request info, free.

Ad