College Comparison
Columbia University vs The University of Tennessee-Knoxville: 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
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 46.0% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570wins | 1190–1340 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 25–31 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $31,974wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148 | $18,109wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491wins | $60,249 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0%wins | 73.5% |
| Retention Rate | 97.2%wins | 91.1% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899 | 28,763wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out Tennessee on 7 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,491
Tennessee Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $31,974
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,109
- ✓Total Enrollment: 28,763
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