Virginia Commonwealth University vs American University
Richmond, VA — Washington, DC
| Metric | Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Richmond, VA | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 20,753 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 92.6% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,137 | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,945 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $40,109 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $23,433 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 64.2% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 85.3% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $47,161 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $58,128 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 886300.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Virginia Commonwealth University and American University compare?▼
Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) has an acceptance rate of 92.6%, in-state tuition of $16,945, and median 10-year earnings of $58,128. 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, Virginia Commonwealth University or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Commonwealth University or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Commonwealth University is the more affordable option at $23,433 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.0% vs 64.2%.
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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