George Mason University vs University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Fairfax, VA — Champaign, IL

Metric
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
Location Fairfax, VA Champaign, IL
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 27,752 36,258
Acceptance Rate 87.5% 42.4%
SAT Average 1,274 1,440
In-State Tuition $14,220 $16,004
Out-of-State Tuition $38,688 $35,124
Avg Net Price $17,915 $14,355
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 68.6% 85.0%
Retention Rate 86.0% 94.8%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,536 $64,802
Median Earnings (10 yr) $76,343 $81,054
Loan Repayment Rate 731900.0% 854700.0%

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

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George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do George Mason University and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign compare?
George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) has an acceptance rate of 42.4%, in-state tuition of $16,004, and median 10-year earnings of $81,054.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, George Mason University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,054 vs $76,343. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, George Mason University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is the more affordable option at $14,355 per year versus $17,915.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.0% vs 68.6%.

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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