University of Chicago vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Chicago, IL — New York, NY

Metric
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Chicago, IL New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,569 8,973
Acceptance Rate 4.5% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,554 1,553
In-State Tuition $70,662 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $70,662 $71,845
Avg Net Price $14,860 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.4% 95.5%
Retention Rate 99.3% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $80,870 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $91,885 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 92500.0% 185800.0%

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

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University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Chicago and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
University of Chicago (Chicago, IL) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $70,662, and median 10-year earnings of $91,885. 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, University of Chicago 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 $91,885. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Chicago or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Chicago is the more affordable option at $14,860 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 95.4%.

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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