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University of Virginia-Main Campus vs Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

5

University of Virginia-Main Campus

2

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric University of Virginia-Main Campus Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Winner
Acceptance Rate 17% 57% University of Virginia-Main Campus
Graduation Rate 95% 86% University of Virginia-Main Campus
Avg Earnings (5yr) $72,359 $67,377 University of Virginia-Main Campus
Median Debt $17,500 $21,500 University of Virginia-Main Campus
Tuition (In-State) $20,986 $15,478 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Retention Rate 97% 92% University of Virginia-Main Campus
Financial Aid 20% 34% Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Comparison Analysis

Graduates of the University of Virginia-Main Campus earn more than those of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn $72,359, while Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn $67,377. The University of Virginia-Main Campus has a higher graduation rate at 95.3% compared to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's 86.3%. However, the acceptance rate at the University of Virginia-Main Campus is much lower at 16.9% compared to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's 57%.

The University of Virginia-Main Campus has a higher tuition cost at $20,986 compared to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's $15,478. Considering both earnings and tuition, the University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a higher potential return on investment due to the higher earnings, despite the higher tuition cost. However, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University provides a more accessible option with a significantly higher acceptance rate.

Decision factors should include career goals, academic preparedness, and financial considerations. Students prioritizing higher potential earnings and a higher graduation rate may favor the University of Virginia-Main Campus. Students prioritizing affordability and a higher chance of acceptance may favor Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major University of Virginia-Main Campus Earnings Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Earnings Difference
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $0 $0
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $0 $0
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $0 $57,958
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $93,565 $77,877 20% favor University of Virginia-Main Campus
Economics $74,958 $56,261 33% favor University of Virginia-Main Campus
Business Administration, Management and Operations $189,494 $60,678 212% favor University of Virginia-Main Campus
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $99,250 $77,877 27% favor University of Virginia-Main Campus
Business Administration, Management and Operations $189,494 $119,423 59% favor University of Virginia-Main Campus
Biology, General $23,395 $28,239 21% favor Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Economics $74,958 $0

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location Charlottesville, VA
Setting Suburban
Students 17,315
Type Public
Location Blacksburg, VA
Setting City
Students 30,435

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

University of Virginia-Main Campus has median earnings of $72,359 and tuition of $20,986. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University has median earnings of $67,377 and tuition of $15,478. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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