Boston College vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Chestnut Hill, MA — New York, NY

Metric
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Chestnut Hill, MA New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,085 8,973
Acceptance Rate 16.4% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,507 1,553
In-State Tuition $70,702 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $70,702 $71,845
Avg Net Price $41,704 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $19,000 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 90.9% 95.5%
Retention Rate 96.0% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $85,717 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $103,937 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 214900.0% 185800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Boston College and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Boston College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Boston College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $103,937 vs $102,491. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Boston College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 per year versus $41,704.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 90.9%.

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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