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University of Central Florida vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

15
University Wins
12
Tied / N/A
19
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
59,146
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

40%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1269
SAT Average
1427
28
ACT Midpoint
29
1200-1350
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$6,368
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$22,467
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$10,411
Average Net Price
$17,354
$5,816
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$7,174
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$10,128
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$17,681
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
32%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

77%
Graduation Rate
89%
92%
Retention Rate
96%
99%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$11,575
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
35%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

59%
Female
53%
43%
White
59%
32%
Hispanic
9%
9%
Black
2%
8%
Asian
11%
0.70
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$47,137
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$52,921
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$58,308
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$18,190
Median Debt
$20,484
0.31x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
71%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

259.77%
Mobility Rate
N/A
3599.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
721.7%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$91,200
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.51
Economic Connectedness
1.78
-0.02
Friending Bias
0.00
6.7%
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

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · Public

40% accept 77% grad $58,308 earnings $10,411 net

With over 59,000 students enrolled, the University of Central Florida is one of the largest public universities in the nation. This scale translates into a rich diversity of academic programs and campus life, making it a vibrant community for students seeking both education and social engagement.

Data from Opportunity Insights shows that UCF graduates see a median earnings increase to $58,308 ten years after enrolling. This reflects a solid return on investment, especially when considering the university’s net price of $10,411 and median debt of $18,190. While specific mobility metrics are not available, the university serves a significant number of Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to supporting low-income students.

Students who thrive at UCF often pursue degrees in popular fields like Business, Health Professions, and Engineering. The moderate acceptance rate of 40% suggests that the university seeks students who show potential for success. With a graduation rate of 77%, many students are able to complete their degrees and enter the workforce prepared and skilled.

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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