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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

20
University Wins
12
Tied / N/A
10
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Great Lakes
34,177
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

16%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1465
SAT Average
1427
N/A
ACT Midpoint
29
1360-1530
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$17,736
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$60,946
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$13,138
Average Net Price
$17,354
$1,043
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$1,878
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$4,895
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$26,517
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
18%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
24%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

93%
Graduation Rate
89%
97%
Retention Rate
96%
82%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$13,384
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
21%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

53%
Female
53%
47%
White
59%
12%
Hispanic
9%
5%
Black
2%
18%
Asian
11%
0.72
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$73,762
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$78,273
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$83,648
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$19,500
Median Debt
$20,484
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
80%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Capital

1.61
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.08
Friending Bias
0.00
8.9%
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 Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public

16% accept 93% grad $83,648 earnings $13,138 net

With an enrollment of nearly 34,200 students, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a vibrant and competitive environment suited for those who thrive in large, diverse settings. The acceptance rate of just 16% means that the university attracts a motivated student body. Here, students dive into popular programs like Computer Science & IT, Engineering, and Business & Marketing, allowing them to engage deeply with their fields while also enjoying the resources of a large public university.

Looking at life after graduation, graduates from Michigan can expect to earn about $83,648 within ten years of completing their degrees. This level of earnings reflects the strong career support and alumni network that helps many students advance in their careers. The university’s high graduation rate of 93% speaks to the commitment of faculty and students alike, ensuring that most make it through to graduation, which is a key factor in securing better job opportunities.

When considering the financial aspect, the net price for students after financial aid is around $13,138, making it a reasonably affordable choice given the quality of education received. With a median debt of $19,500, most graduates leave with manageable loans, especially in light of their earning potential. Students who excel here often share a drive to succeed and a passion for their chosen fields, making Michigan a great fit for those eager to make an impact in their careers.

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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