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University of Virginia-Main Campus vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

19
University Wins
11
Tied / N/A
12
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
17,597
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

17%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1480
SAT Average
1427
34
ACT Midpoint
29
1410-1540
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$21,803
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$59,512
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$21,565
Average Net Price
$17,354
$8,174
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$9,696
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$13,283
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$35,402
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
16%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
20%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

95%
Graduation Rate
89%
98%
Retention Rate
96%
96%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$17,428
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
16%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

55%
Female
53%
49%
White
59%
8%
Hispanic
9%
8%
Black
2%
20%
Asian
11%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$72,359
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$80,156
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$86,863
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$17,500
Median Debt
$20,484
0.2x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
80%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.78
-0.01
Friending Bias
0.00
8.6%
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 Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

17% accept 95% grad $86,863 earnings $21,565 net

With an acceptance rate of just 17%, the University of Virginia-Main Campus attracts students who are ready for an academically rigorous environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in a wide range of disciplines, particularly in humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and computer science. Students here are not just looking for a degree; they’re aiming for a transformative college experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

After graduation, students typically see solid returns on their investment. With a median earning of $86,863 ten years post-graduation, many graduates find themselves in a stable financial position. The affordable net price of $21,565 means that with careful planning and support, students can graduate with manageable debt, averaging around $17,500. This financial outlook is encouraging, especially for those who may worry about student loans impacting their future.

Ultimately, the practical aspects of attending UVA-Main Campus play a crucial role in student success. With a supportive environment, it’s a place where driven students can thrive, particularly those who are proactive about taking advantage of the resources available. This community fosters not just academic excellence but also personal growth, making it a smart choice for those ready to engage deeply in their education.

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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