George Mason University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

Fairfax, VA — Madison, WI

Metric
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Location Fairfax, VA Madison, WI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 27,752 36,902
Acceptance Rate 87.5% 45.2%
SAT Average 1,274 1,427
In-State Tuition $14,220 $11,603
Out-of-State Tuition $38,688 $42,103
Avg Net Price $17,915 $17,354
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $20,484
4-Year Graduation Rate 68.6% 89.4%
Retention Rate 86.0% 96.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,536 $61,275
Median Earnings (10 yr) $76,343 $73,792
Loan Repayment Rate 731900.0% 729100.0%

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 Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do George Mason University and University of Wisconsin-Madison 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 Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, George Mason University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, George Mason University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 per year versus $17,915.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% 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