University of Wisconsin-Madison vs American University
Madison, WI — Washington, DC
| Metric | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Madison, WI | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 36,902 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 45.2% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,427 | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,603 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $42,103 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,354 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,484 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 89.4% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,275 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $73,792 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 729100.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and American University compare?▼
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. 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 Wisconsin-Madison or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% 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