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Ohio State University-Main Campus vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

8
Ohio Wins
10
Tied / N/A
24
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Great Lakes
45,638
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

61%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1387
SAT Average
1427
29
ACT Midpoint
29
1310-1480
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,244
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$40,022
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$17,339
Average Net Price
$17,354
$4,885
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$5,751
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$9,807
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$27,359
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
20%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
29%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
89%
94%
Retention Rate
96%
63%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$14,386
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
26%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

52%
Female
53%
60%
White
59%
6%
Hispanic
9%
8%
Black
2%
11%
Asian
11%
0.61
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$51,438
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$56,186
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$60,409
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$19,976
Median Debt
$20,484
0.33x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
72%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.03
Friending Bias
0.00
8.5%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#27
N/A
Teaching Score
74.3
N/A
Research Score
77.3
N/A
Citations Score
90.6

The Overviews

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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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