Virginia Commonwealth University vs George Mason University
Richmond, VA — Fairfax, VA
| Metric | Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA | George Mason University Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Richmond, VA | Fairfax, VA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 20,753 | 27,752 |
| Acceptance Rate | 92.6% | 87.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,137 | 1,274 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,945 | $14,220 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $40,109 | $38,688 |
| Avg Net Price | $23,433 | $17,915 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 64.2% | 68.6% |
| Retention Rate | 85.3% | 86.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $47,161 | $60,536 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $58,128 | $76,343 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 886300.0% | 731900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Virginia Commonwealth University and George Mason 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. 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, Virginia Commonwealth University or George Mason University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Commonwealth University or George Mason University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $23,433.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
George Mason University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 68.6% vs 64.2%.
More Comparisons
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