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Princeton University vs Williams 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
Williams Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
5,709
Enrollment
2,076
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1553
SAT Average
1533
34
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1510-1580
SAT Range
1490-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$68,560
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,560
$6,128
Average Net Price
$17,716
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$-2,610
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$-1,727
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$-1,978
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$49,594
19%
Pell Grant Rate
18%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
5%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
95%
98%
Retention Rate
97%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,317
28%
First-Gen Students
22%

Student Body

51%
Female
51%
34%
White
47%
10%
Hispanic
14%
9%
Black
6%
23%
Asian
12%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.73

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$71,754
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$79,082
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$88,665
$10,320
Median Debt
$12,761
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
83%
Earning Above HS
68%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
98.66%
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3087.0%
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
319.6%
$218,100
Parent Median Income
$184,000

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
1.85
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.00
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
10.6%

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.

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · Private nonprofit

8% accept 95% grad $88,665 earnings $17,716 net

With an acceptance rate of just 8%, Williams College tends to attract highly motivated students who are ready to engage deeply in their studies. This school is ideal for those interested in social sciences, computer science, biology, physical sciences, and mathematics. The small enrollment of just over 2,000 students creates an intimate learning environment where personalized attention from faculty is the norm. It’s a place where students can explore their passions and develop critical thinking skills that are essential for success.

Looking at what graduates achieve, the earnings after ten years stand at an impressive $88,665. This number reflects the strong career pathways that Williams alumni typically follow. Graduates often find themselves in rewarding positions that not only offer financial stability but also align with their academic interests. The combination of a high graduation rate at 95% and a reasonable net price of $17,716 makes it a compelling choice for students who want to make a lasting impact in their fields.

When considering the cost, students generally graduate with a median debt of $12,761, which is manageable for the earning potential they have after leaving. This financial landscape makes Williams accessible to a diverse group of students, including those who qualify for Pell Grants at a rate of 18%. Students who thrive here are often those who seek a rigorous academic challenge and value the close-knit community, ready to invest in their future while embracing the support that comes with it.

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