Colby College vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Waterville, ME — New York, NY

Metric
Colby College
Waterville, ME
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Waterville, ME New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 2,407 8,973
Acceptance Rate 7.1% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,501 1,553
In-State Tuition $69,600 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $69,600 $71,845
Avg Net Price $17,180 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $19,157 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.5% 95.5%
Retention Rate 93.7% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,052 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $80,490 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 31900.0% 185800.0%

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

Full Profile
Colby College
Waterville, ME
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Colby College and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Colby College (Waterville, ME) has an acceptance rate of 7.1%, in-state tuition of $69,600, and median 10-year earnings of $80,490. 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, Colby College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $80,490. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Colby College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Colby College is the more affordable option at $17,180 per year versus $21,590.
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 89.5%.

More Comparisons

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