Lehigh University vs Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Bethlehem, PA — Troy, NY

Metric
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
Location Bethlehem, PA Troy, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 5,898 5,714
Acceptance Rate 25.9% 63.5%
SAT Average 1,440 1,456
In-State Tuition $64,980 $64,081
Out-of-State Tuition $64,980 $64,081
Avg Net Price $36,931 $36,228
Median Debt at Graduation $21,960 $23,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 88.5% 83.4%
Retention Rate 93.7% 90.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,810 $83,054
Median Earnings (10 yr) $105,584 $102,051
Loan Repayment Rate 126500.0% 189900.0%

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

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Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Lehigh University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute compare?
Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY) has an acceptance rate of 63.5%, in-state tuition of $64,081, and median 10-year earnings of $102,051.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Lehigh University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $102,051. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Lehigh University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the more affordable option at $36,228 per year versus $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% vs 83.4%.

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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