University of Colorado Boulder vs American University
Boulder, CO — Washington, DC
| Metric | University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, CO | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Boulder, CO | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 31,939 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 78.1% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,357 | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,666 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $44,918 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $25,346 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 74.6% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 90.1% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $54,939 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $69,738 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 691700.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Colorado Boulder and American University compare?▼
University of Colorado Boulder (Boulder, CO) has an acceptance rate of 78.1%, in-state tuition of $15,666, and median 10-year earnings of $69,738. American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Colorado Boulder or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $69,738. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Colorado Boulder or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Colorado Boulder is the more affordable option at $25,346 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.0% vs 74.6%.
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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