College Comparison
Columbia University vs American University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
American University
Washington, DC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | American University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 47.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570wins | 1300–1450 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $56,543wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148wins | $41,945 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491wins | $77,370 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0%wins | 78.5% |
| Retention Rate | 97.2%wins | 86.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 10:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899wins | 7,593 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out American University on 9 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.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Avg Net Price: $20,148
American University Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $56,543
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