University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Madison, WI — Blacksburg, VA

Metric
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
Location Madison, WI Blacksburg, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 36,902 30,923
Acceptance Rate 45.2% 54.8%
SAT Average 1,427 1,364
In-State Tuition $11,603 $15,948
Out-of-State Tuition $42,103 $37,764
Avg Net Price $17,354 $24,953
Median Debt at Graduation $20,484 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.4% 86.3%
Retention Rate 96.2% 93.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,275 $67,377
Median Earnings (10 yr) $73,792 $81,698
Loan Repayment Rate 729100.0% 661700.0%

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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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 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. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,698 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 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 $24,953.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 86.3%.

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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