College Comparison
Lehigh 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
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
School
American University
Washington, DC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Lehigh | American University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 29.3%wins | 47.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1350–1490wins | 1300–1450 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 31–33wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,180 | $56,543wins |
| Avg Net Price | $33,549wins | $41,945 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $105,584wins | $77,370 |
| Graduation Rate | 89.2%wins | 78.5% |
| Retention Rate | 92.7%wins | 86.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1 | 10:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 5,803 | 7,593wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Lehigh 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.
Lehigh Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 29.3%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1350–1490
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 31–33
- ✓Avg Net Price: $33,549
American University Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $56,543
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,593
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