University of Wisconsin-Madison vs George Mason University

Madison, WI — Fairfax, VA

Metric
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
Location Madison, WI Fairfax, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 36,902 27,752
Acceptance Rate 45.2% 87.5%
SAT Average 1,427 1,274
In-State Tuition $11,603 $14,220
Out-of-State Tuition $42,103 $38,688
Avg Net Price $17,354 $17,915
Median Debt at Graduation $20,484 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.4% 68.6%
Retention Rate 96.2% 86.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,275 $60,536
Median Earnings (10 yr) $73,792 $76,343
Loan Repayment Rate 729100.0% 731900.0%

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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George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and George Mason 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. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Wisconsin-Madison or George Mason University?
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or George Mason 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 $17,915.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 68.6%.

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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