Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus vs George Mason University
University Park, PA — Fairfax, VA
| Metric | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA | George Mason University Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | University Park, PA | Fairfax, VA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 42,284 | 27,752 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.6% | 87.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,337 | 1,274 |
| In-State Tuition | $20,644 | $14,220 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $41,790 | $38,688 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,875 | $17,915 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.9% | 68.6% |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 86.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,620 | $60,536 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,435 | $76,343 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3192600.0% | 731900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus and George Mason University compare?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (University Park, PA) has an acceptance rate of 60.6%, in-state tuition of $20,644, and median 10-year earnings of $63,435. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or George Mason University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or George Mason University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $32,875.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.9% vs 68.6%.
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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