Columbia College vs George Mason University
Columbia, SC — Fairfax, VA
| Metric | Columbia College Columbia, SC | George Mason University Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, SC | Fairfax, VA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 1,343 | 27,752 |
| Acceptance Rate | 93.9% | 87.5% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,274 |
| In-State Tuition | $22,214 | $14,220 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $22,214 | $38,688 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,408 | $17,915 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 45.1% | 68.6% |
| Retention Rate | 60.4% | 86.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $45,863 | $60,536 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $41,338 | $76,343 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 70800.0% | 731900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia College
Columbia, SC
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George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia College and George Mason University compare?▼
Columbia College (Columbia, SC) has an acceptance rate of 93.9%, in-state tuition of $22,214, and median 10-year earnings of $41,338. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia College or George Mason University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $41,338. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia College or George Mason University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $18,408.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
George Mason University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 68.6% vs 45.1%.
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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