American University vs Boston College
Washington, DC — Chestnut Hill, MA
| Metric | American University Washington, DC | Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC | Chestnut Hill, MA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,266 | 10,085 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.0% | 16.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,381 | 1,507 |
| In-State Tuition | $58,771 | $70,702 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $58,771 | $70,702 |
| Avg Net Price | $41,943 | $41,704 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $19,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.0% | 90.9% |
| Retention Rate | 88.2% | 96.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,328 | $85,717 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370 | $103,937 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 219000.0% | 214900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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American University
Washington, DC
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Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do American University and Boston College compare?▼
American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370. Boston College (Chestnut Hill, MA) has an acceptance rate of 16.4%, in-state tuition of $70,702, and median 10-year earnings of $103,937.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American University or Boston College?▼
Boston College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $103,937 vs $77,370. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American University or Boston College?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Boston College is the more affordable option at $41,704 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Boston College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 90.9% vs 77.0%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025