Empire State University vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Saratoga Springs, NY — New York, NY
| Metric | Empire State University Saratoga Springs, NY | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Saratoga Springs, NY | New York, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,585 | 8,973 |
| Acceptance Rate | — | 4.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $7,648 | $71,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $17,558 | $71,845 |
| Avg Net Price | $11,676 | $21,590 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,730 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 33.8% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 65.7% | 98.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $50,167 | $88,535 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $54,080 | $102,491 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 605600.0% | 185800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Empire State University
Saratoga Springs, 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 Empire State University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?▼
Empire State University (Saratoga Springs, NY) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $7,648, and median 10-year earnings of $54,080. 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, Empire State University 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 $54,080. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Empire State University or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Empire State University is the more affordable option at $11,676 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 33.8%.
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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