University of Nebraska-Lincoln vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

Lincoln, NE — Madison, WI

Metric
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Location Lincoln, NE Madison, WI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 19,178 36,902
Acceptance Rate 87.5% 45.2%
SAT Average 1,191 1,427
In-State Tuition $10,434 $11,603
Out-of-State Tuition $28,584 $42,103
Avg Net Price $17,747 $17,354
Median Debt at Graduation $21,000 $20,484
4-Year Graduation Rate 66.4% 89.4%
Retention Rate 86.0% 96.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,692 $61,275
Median Earnings (10 yr) $56,887 $73,792
Loan Repayment Rate 686600.0% 729100.0%

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

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University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Wisconsin-Madison compare?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Lincoln, NE) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $10,434, and median 10-year earnings of $56,887. University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Nebraska-Lincoln or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $73,792 vs $56,887. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Nebraska-Lincoln or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 per year versus $17,747.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 66.4%.

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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