College Comparison
Auburn University vs The University of Alabama: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
School
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Auburn | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 50.5%wins | 75.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1240–1380wins | 1170–1400 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 25–31wins | 24–31 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $33,944 | $33,200wins |
| Avg Net Price | $23,897 | $22,150wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $65,337wins | $59,221 |
| Graduation Rate | 79.2%wins | 73.7% |
| Retention Rate | 93.2%wins | 86.1% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 21:1 | 19:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 25,732 | 32,323wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Auburn edges out Alabama on 6 of 10 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.
Auburn Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 50.5%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1240–1380
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 25–31
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $65,337
Alabama Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,200
- ✓Avg Net Price: $22,150
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 32,323
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