Lees-McRae College vs Rice University

Banner Elk, NC — Houston, TX

Metric
Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC
Rice University
Houston, TX
Location Banner Elk, NC Houston, TX
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 873 4,776
Acceptance Rate 76.8% 8.0%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $33,250 $64,144
Out-of-State Tuition $33,250 $64,144
Avg Net Price $28,340 $13,370
Median Debt at Graduation $17,375 $11,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 43.1% 95.2%
Retention Rate 68.8% 97.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $41,599 $79,751
Median Earnings (10 yr) $43,415 $89,718
Loan Repayment Rate 57000.0% 41300.0%

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

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Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC
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Rice University
Houston, TX
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Lees-McRae College and Rice University compare?
Lees-McRae College (Banner Elk, NC) has an acceptance rate of 76.8%, in-state tuition of $33,250, and median 10-year earnings of $43,415. Rice University (Houston, TX) has an acceptance rate of 8.0%, in-state tuition of $64,144, and median 10-year earnings of $89,718.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Lees-McRae College or Rice University?
Rice University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,718 vs $43,415. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Lees-McRae College or Rice University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Rice University is the more affordable option at $13,370 per year versus $28,340.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Rice University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.2% vs 43.1%.

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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