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College Comparison

American University vs University of Washington: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

American University

Washington, DC

School

University of Washington

Seattle, WA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricAmerican UniversityUW Seattle
Acceptance Rate47.4%42.5%wins
SAT Range (25th–75th)1300–1450winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)29–33N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$56,543$41,997wins
Avg Net Price$41,945$13,485wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$77,370$78,466wins
Graduation Rate78.5%83.7%wins
Retention Rate86.2%94.9%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio10:1wins20:1
Total Enrollment7,59331,588wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, UW Seattle edges out American University on 7 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.

American University Strengths

  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1450
  • Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1

UW Seattle Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 42.5%
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $41,997
  • Avg Net Price: $13,485
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $78,466

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