University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Central Washington University

Madison, WI — Ellensburg, WA

Metric
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA
Location Madison, WI Ellensburg, WA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 36,902 7,833
Acceptance Rate 45.2% 90.6%
SAT Average 1,427
In-State Tuition $11,603 $9,417
Out-of-State Tuition $42,103 $27,526
Avg Net Price $17,354 $18,476
Median Debt at Graduation $20,484 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.4% 51.6%
Retention Rate 96.2% 70.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,275 $49,398
Median Earnings (10 yr) $73,792 $61,580
Loan Repayment Rate 729100.0% 527100.0%

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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Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and Central Washington 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. Central Washington University (Ellensburg, WA) has an acceptance rate of 90.6%, in-state tuition of $9,417, and median 10-year earnings of $61,580.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Central Washington University?
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $73,792 vs $61,580. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Central Washington 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 $18,476.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 51.6%.

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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