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Princeton 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.

30
Princeton Wins
12
Tied / N/A
4
Washington Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Southeast
5,709
Enrollment
1,881
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1553
SAT Average
1498
34
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1430-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$68,045
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,045
$6,128
Average Net Price
$23,781
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-1,777
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$75
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,497
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$40,646
19%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
94%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,155
28%
First-Gen Students
N/A

Student Body

51%
Female
44%
34%
White
68%
10%
Hispanic
9%
9%
Black
5%
23%
Asian
5%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.52

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$76,516
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$89,772
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$94,810
$10,320
Median Debt
$19,500
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
83%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
57.09%
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5102.3%
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
111.9%
$218,100
Parent Median Income
$226,700

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
1.82
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.00
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

Research (Times HE)

#5
World Rank
N/A
90.9
Teaching Score
N/A
95.4
Research Score
N/A
99.9
Citations Score
N/A

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.

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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