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Princeton University vs Wellesley College

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

27
Princeton Wins
11
Tied / N/A
8
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
5,709
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1553
SAT Average
1520
34
ACT Midpoint
33
1510-1580
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$6,128
Average Net Price
$25,496
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
19%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
91%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
28%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

51%
Female
N/A
34%
White
30%
10%
Hispanic
14%
9%
Black
8%
23%
Asian
26%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$10,320
Median Debt
$10,000
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
83%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$218,100
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
1.84
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.00
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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