College Comparison
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Auburn 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
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
School
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Tennessee | Auburn |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 46.0%wins | 50.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1190–1340 | 1240–1380wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 25–31 | 25–31 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $31,974wins | $33,944 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,109wins | $23,897 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $60,249 | $65,337wins |
| Graduation Rate | 73.5% | 79.2%wins |
| Retention Rate | 91.1% | 93.2%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 18:1wins | 21:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 28,763wins | 25,732 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Tennessee edges out Auburn on 5 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.
Tennessee Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 46.0%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $31,974
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,109
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Auburn Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1240–1380
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $65,337
- ✓Graduation Rate: 79.2%
- ✓Retention Rate: 93.2%
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