Columbia University in the City of New York vs University of Alabama at Birmingham

New York, NY — Birmingham, AL

Metric
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
Location New York, NY Birmingham, AL
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 8,973 11,635
Acceptance Rate 4.0% 88.2%
SAT Average 1,553 1,258
In-State Tuition $71,845 $9,098
Out-of-State Tuition $71,845 $22,562
Avg Net Price $21,590 $18,749
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $22,300
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 63.4%
Retention Rate 98.0% 80.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,535 $46,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,491 $54,501
Loan Repayment Rate 185800.0% 504900.0%

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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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia University in the City of New York and University of Alabama at Birmingham 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. University of Alabama at Birmingham (Birmingham, AL) has an acceptance rate of 88.2%, in-state tuition of $9,098, and median 10-year earnings of $54,501.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Alabama at Birmingham?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $54,501. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Alabama at Birmingham?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Alabama at Birmingham is the more affordable option at $18,749 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 63.4%.

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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