George Mason University vs Virginia Commonwealth University
Fairfax, VA — Richmond, VA
| Metric | George Mason University Fairfax, VA | Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Fairfax, VA | Richmond, VA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 27,752 | 20,753 |
| Acceptance Rate | 87.5% | 92.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,274 | 1,137 |
| In-State Tuition | $14,220 | $16,945 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $38,688 | $40,109 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,915 | $23,433 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 68.6% | 64.2% |
| Retention Rate | 86.0% | 85.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $60,536 | $47,161 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $76,343 | $58,128 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 731900.0% | 886300.0% |
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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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do George Mason University and Virginia Commonwealth University 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. Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) has an acceptance rate of 92.6%, in-state tuition of $16,945, and median 10-year earnings of $58,128.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, George Mason University or Virginia Commonwealth University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, George Mason University or Virginia Commonwealth University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $23,433.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
George Mason University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 68.6% vs 64.2%.
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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