University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill vs American University
Chapel Hill, NC — Washington, DC
| Metric | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Chapel Hill, NC | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 20,752 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 15.3% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,439 | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,994 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $41,203 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $11,655 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 91.6% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 96.6% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $57,057 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $72,200 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 364700.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and American University compare?▼
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, NC) has an acceptance rate of 15.3%, in-state tuition of $8,994, and median 10-year earnings of $72,200. 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 North Carolina at Chapel Hill or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $72,200. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the more affordable option at $11,655 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.6% vs 77.0%.
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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