Washington State University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

Pullman, WA — Madison, WI

Metric
Washington State University
Pullman, WA
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Location Pullman, WA Madison, WI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 21,099 36,902
Acceptance Rate 86.6% 45.2%
SAT Average 1,427
In-State Tuition $13,391 $11,603
Out-of-State Tuition $29,950 $42,103
Avg Net Price $14,971 $17,354
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $20,484
4-Year Graduation Rate 61.0% 89.4%
Retention Rate 78.3% 96.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,510 $61,275
Median Earnings (10 yr) $68,905 $73,792
Loan Repayment Rate 975300.0% 729100.0%

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

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Washington State University
Pullman, WA
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Washington State University and University of Wisconsin-Madison compare?
Washington State University (Pullman, WA) has an acceptance rate of 86.6%, in-state tuition of $13,391, and median 10-year earnings of $68,905. 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, Washington State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $73,792 vs $68,905. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Washington State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Washington State University is the more affordable option at $14,971 per year versus $17,354.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% vs 61.0%.

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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