James Madison University vs Washington University in St Louis

Harrisonburg, VA — St. Louis, MO

Metric
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
Location Harrisonburg, VA St. Louis, MO
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 20,888 7,857
Acceptance Rate 71.5% 12.1%
SAT Average 1,256 1,530
In-State Tuition $14,250 $65,790
Out-of-State Tuition $31,604 $65,790
Avg Net Price $23,322 $21,786
Median Debt at Graduation $20,093 $17,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.3% 94.3%
Retention Rate 92.0% 95.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $57,438 $78,073
Median Earnings (10 yr) $69,954 $86,182
Loan Repayment Rate 457600.0% 104800.0%

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

Full Profile
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MO
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do James Madison University and Washington University in St Louis compare?
James Madison University (Harrisonburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 71.5%, in-state tuition of $14,250, and median 10-year earnings of $69,954. Washington University in St Louis (St. Louis, MO) has an acceptance rate of 12.1%, in-state tuition of $65,790, and median 10-year earnings of $86,182.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, James Madison University or Washington University in St Louis?
Washington University in St Louis graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $86,182 vs $69,954. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, James Madison University or Washington University in St Louis?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Washington University in St Louis is the more affordable option at $21,786 per year versus $23,322.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Washington University in St Louis has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 94.3% vs 80.3%.

More Comparisons

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