Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Blacksburg, VA — New York, NY

Metric
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Blacksburg, VA New York, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 30,923 8,973
Acceptance Rate 54.8% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,364 1,553
In-State Tuition $15,948 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $37,764 $71,845
Avg Net Price $24,953 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.3% 95.5%
Retention Rate 93.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $67,377 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $81,698 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 661700.0% 185800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $81,698. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 per year versus $24,953.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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