Grinnell College vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Grinnell, IA — New York, NY

Metric
Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Grinnell, IA New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 1,729 8,973
Acceptance Rate 14.5% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,486 1,553
In-State Tuition $68,106 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $68,106 $71,845
Avg Net Price $17,648 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 87.8% 95.5%
Retention Rate 92.6% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $49,004 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,830 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 39400.0% 185800.0%

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

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Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Grinnell College and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Grinnell College (Grinnell, IA) has an acceptance rate of 14.5%, in-state tuition of $68,106, and median 10-year earnings of $62,830. 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, Grinnell College 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 $62,830. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Grinnell College or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Grinnell College is the more affordable option at $17,648 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 87.8%.

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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