CUNY City College vs Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY — New York, NY

Metric
CUNY City College
New York, NY
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location New York, NY New York, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 12,505 8,973
Acceptance Rate 60.0% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,260 1,553
In-State Tuition $7,340 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $15,290 $71,845
Avg Net Price $3,776 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $11,990 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 55.8% 95.5%
Retention Rate 79.3% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,435 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $66,039 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 229700.0% 185800.0%

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

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CUNY City College
New York, NY
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do CUNY City College and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
CUNY City College (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 60.0%, in-state tuition of $7,340, and median 10-year earnings of $66,039. 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, CUNY City 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 $66,039. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, CUNY City College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), CUNY City College is the more affordable option at $3,776 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 55.8%.

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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