Columbia University in the City of New York vs Virginia Commonwealth University

New York, NY — Richmond, VA

Metric
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Location New York, NY Richmond, VA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 8,973 20,753
Acceptance Rate 4.0% 92.6%
SAT Average 1,553 1,137
In-State Tuition $71,845 $16,945
Out-of-State Tuition $71,845 $40,109
Avg Net Price $21,590 $23,433
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 64.2%
Retention Rate 98.0% 85.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,535 $47,161
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,491 $58,128
Loan Repayment Rate 185800.0% 886300.0%

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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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia University in the City of New York and Virginia Commonwealth 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. Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) has an acceptance rate of 92.6%, in-state tuition of $16,945, and median 10-year earnings of $58,128.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or Virginia Commonwealth University?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or Virginia Commonwealth 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 $23,433.
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 64.2%.

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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