George Mason University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus

Fairfax, VA — Charlottesville, VA

Metric
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA
Location Fairfax, VA Charlottesville, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 27,752 17,597
Acceptance Rate 87.5% 16.8%
SAT Average 1,274 1,480
In-State Tuition $14,220 $21,803
Out-of-State Tuition $38,688 $59,512
Avg Net Price $17,915 $21,565
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $17,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 68.6% 95.5%
Retention Rate 86.0% 97.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,536 $72,359
Median Earnings (10 yr) $76,343 $86,863
Loan Repayment Rate 731900.0% 272500.0%

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 Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do George Mason University and University of Virginia-Main Campus 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 Virginia-Main Campus (Charlottesville, VA) has an acceptance rate of 16.8%, in-state tuition of $21,803, and median 10-year earnings of $86,863.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, George Mason University or University of Virginia-Main Campus?
University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $86,863 vs $76,343. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, George Mason University or University of Virginia-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $21,565.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Virginia-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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