Columbia University in the City of New York vs American University
New York, NY — Washington, DC
| Metric | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | New York, NY | Washington, DC |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 8,973 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4.0% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $71,845 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $71,845 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $21,590 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 98.0% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $88,535 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 185800.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia University in the City of New York and American University compare?▼
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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or American University?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $77,370. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or American University?▼
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 $41,943.
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 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