University of Virginia-Main Campus vs American University

Charlottesville, VA — Washington, DC

Metric
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA
American University
Washington, DC
Location Charlottesville, VA Washington, DC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 17,597 7,266
Acceptance Rate 16.8% 62.0%
SAT Average 1,480 1,381
In-State Tuition $21,803 $58,771
Out-of-State Tuition $59,512 $58,771
Avg Net Price $21,565 $41,943
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $22,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 77.0%
Retention Rate 97.5% 88.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $72,359 $61,328
Median Earnings (10 yr) $86,863 $77,370
Loan Repayment Rate 272500.0% 219000.0%

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

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University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Virginia-Main Campus and American University compare?
University of Virginia-Main Campus (Charlottesville, VA) has an acceptance rate of 16.8%, in-state tuition of $21,803, and median 10-year earnings of $86,863. 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 Virginia-Main Campus or American University?
University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $86,863 vs $77,370. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Virginia-Main Campus or American University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Virginia-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $21,565 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Virginia-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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