College Comparison
RPI 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
RPI
Troy, NY
School
American University
Washington, DC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | RPI | American University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 58.5% | 47.4%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1330–1500wins | 1300–1450 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 30–34wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $61,884 | $56,543wins |
| Avg Net Price | $33,139wins | $41,945 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,051wins | $77,370 |
| Graduation Rate | 83.2%wins | 78.5% |
| Retention Rate | 88.7%wins | 86.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 14:1 | 10:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 5,909 | 7,593wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, RPI edges out American University 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.
RPI Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1330–1500
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 30–34
- ✓Avg Net Price: $33,139
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,051
American University Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 47.4%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $56,543
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,593
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