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College Comparison

Georgetown 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

Georgetown University

Washington, DC

School

American University

Washington, DC

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricGeorgetownAmerican University
Acceptance Rate13.1%wins47.4%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1390–1550wins1300–1450
ACT Range (25th–75th)32–34wins29–33
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,081$56,543wins
Avg Net Price$39,433wins$41,945
Median Earnings (10 yr)$103,494wins$77,370
Graduation Rate94.3%wins78.5%
Retention Rate97.1%wins86.2%
Student–Faculty Ratio11:110:1wins
Total Enrollment7,4627,593wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Georgetown edges out American University 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.

Georgetown Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 13.1%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1390–1550
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 32–34
  • Avg Net Price: $39,433

American University Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $56,543
  • Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1
  • Total Enrollment: 7,593

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