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Princeton University vs University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

30
Princeton Wins
6
Tied / N/A
10
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Southeast
5,709
Enrollment
20,752
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
15%
1553
SAT Average
1439
34
ACT Midpoint
25
1510-1580
SAT Range
1390-1530

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$8,994
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,203
$6,128
Average Net Price
$11,655
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,004
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$3,918
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,538
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$24,396
19%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
13%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
92%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
78%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,046
28%
First-Gen Students
20%

Student Body

51%
Female
62%
34%
White
53%
10%
Hispanic
10%
9%
Black
7%
23%
Asian
16%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.67

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$57,057
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$65,584
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$72,200
$10,320
Median Debt
$14,000
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
83%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
115.19%
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3330.1%
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
345.9%
$218,100
Parent Median Income
$129,500

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
1.68
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

#5
World Rank
#30
90.9
Teaching Score
70.9
95.4
Research Score
75.1
99.9
Citations Score
85

The Overviews

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $110,066 earnings $6,128 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Princeton University is not for everyone, but for those who make the cut, it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity. The school attracts bright minds, particularly in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, and Biology. Students here are often deeply engaged in their studies, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. This kind of environment fosters not just learning but also a strong sense of community among peers.

After graduation, the benefits of attending Princeton are clear. Alumni can expect an impressive average earning of $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degrees. This speaks volumes about the value of a Princeton education, especially when considering the high graduation rate of 97%. The school’s focus on producing skilled graduates who excel in their careers contributes significantly to their long-term success.

When it comes to finances, the net price after aid is manageable at $6,128, and the median debt stands at $10,320. This means many graduates leave with a realistic financial outlook, allowing them to focus on their careers rather than being weighed down by overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and campus life.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · Public

15% accept 92% grad $72,200 earnings $11,655 net

With an acceptance rate of just 15%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill attracts students who are ready to dive into a diverse range of studies, including Biology, Business, and Communications. This school is a great fit for those who thrive in a competitive environment and are looking for strong academic support. The impressive graduation rate of 92% indicates a solid commitment to student success, meaning you'll likely find yourself in a community that values achievement and collaboration.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $72,200 within a decade, which is a pretty solid starting point for many. This level of earning power suggests that the programs offered here are well-aligned with job market needs. Additionally, the cost of attendance is manageable, with a net price of $11,655 after aid, making it a compelling choice for those concerned about financial barriers.

When it comes to debt, the median load of $14,000 is relatively low compared to what many graduates face elsewhere. This means that students who manage their finances well can leave college with a degree of financial freedom. Generally, those who thrive here are driven and engaged, ready to take advantage of the rich academic and social resources that UNC Chapel Hill has to offer.

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