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

Blacksburg, VA — Madison, WI

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

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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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and University of Wisconsin-Madison 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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
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