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Michigan State University vs Washington and Lee University

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

14
Michigan Wins
9
Tied / N/A
23
Washington Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
Great Lakes
Region
Southeast
40,922
Enrollment
1,881
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1269
SAT Average
1498
26
ACT Midpoint
34
1180-1360
SAT Range
1430-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$68,045
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,045
$19,680
Average Net Price
$23,781
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-1,777
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$75
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,497
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$40,646
20%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
94%
90%
Retention Rate
97%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,155
21%
First-Gen Students
N/A

Student Body

55%
Female
44%
67%
White
68%
7%
Hispanic
9%
7%
Black
5%
8%
Asian
5%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.52

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$76,516
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$89,772
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$94,810
$23,250
Median Debt
$19,500
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
76%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

138.78%
Mobility Rate
57.09%
3392.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5102.3%
409.1%
From Bottom 20%
111.9%
$120,400
Parent Median Income
$226,700

Social Capital

1.48
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.09
Friending Bias
0.00
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

Research (Times HE)

#122
World Rank
N/A
50.4
Teaching Score
N/A
52.7
Research Score
N/A
63.7
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public

85% accept 81% grad $67,253 earnings $19,680 net

With an enrollment of over 40,000 students, Michigan State University is a vibrant choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business, Biology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 85% means it's accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to grow academically and socially. Here, you’ll find a mix of rigorous academic programs and a lively campus life that suits both serious scholars and those looking to make connections.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a median income of $67,253 just ten years post-degree. This indicates that graduates are moving into steady careers that often lead to upward mobility, although specific statistics on mobility are not available. The cost of education is manageable, especially considering the average net price of $19,680 after aid, which makes it an appealing option for many.

When it comes to affordability, the median debt sits at $23,250, which is relatively reasonable given the earning potential. Students who thrive here often take advantage of the large network and resources available, whether through campus organizations or internship opportunities. Overall, Michigan State University attracts those who are ready to engage in a dynamic environment and are focused on building a future that balances education with real-world applicability.

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 94% grad $94,810 earnings $23,781 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Washington and Lee University draws students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply in their studies. This private institution, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Physical Sciences. If you’re looking for a place that encourages critical thinking and a close-knit community, this might just be the right fit for you.

Graduates from Washington and Lee see impressive earnings, with a median income of $94,810 ten years after graduation. This kind of financial outcome suggests that students who excel here are well-prepared for the job market and often find themselves in higher-paying positions. The strong graduation rate of 94% also points to a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

When it comes to the practicalities of attending Washington and Lee, the net price after aid stands at $23,781, which is relatively manageable given the high earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $19,500, students can graduate with a reasonable amount of loans, especially considering the high salaries many alumni achieve. Those who thrive here are typically driven, engaged, and ready to make the most of their educational experience.

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