College Comparison
University of Virginia vs University of Wisconsin-Madison: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA
School
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | UVA | UW-Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 16.9%wins | 43.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1410–1530wins | 1360–1510 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 32–34wins | 28–32 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $58,014 | $40,603wins |
| Avg Net Price | $22,881 | $16,928wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $86,863wins | $73,792 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.3%wins | 89.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.3%wins | 94.5% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 15:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 17,315 | 35,665wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, UVA edges out UW-Madison 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.
UVA Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 16.9%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1410–1530
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 32–34
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $86,863
UW-Madison Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $40,603
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,928
- ✓Total Enrollment: 35,665
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