Head-to-head · 2026
American University vs George Washington University
Compare average net price ($41,943 at American University; $36,586 at George Washington University), ROI score (4.61 vs 6.21), ten-year median earnings ($77,370 vs $90,873), and admissions selectivity (62% acceptance at American University; 47.1% at George Washington University) using federal College Scorecard data. George Washington University has a 7-0 metric-level edge. George Washington University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | American University | George Washington University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 4.61 | 6.21 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $41,943 | $36,586 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $77,370 | $90,873 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 62% | 47.1% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 75.5% | 84% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,750 | $20,449 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,266 | 11,182 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1381 | 1433 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 7 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
American University costs $5,357 more per year than George Washington University ($41,943 vs $36,586). George Washington University graduates report $13,503 higher median earnings after ten years ($90,873 vs $77,370). On EduGradify's model that puts George Washington University ahead on projected ROI (6.21 vs 4.61, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (George Washington University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, American University is accessible at 62% acceptance versus 47.1% (selective) at George Washington University.
Frequently asked
American University vs George Washington University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is American University or George Washington University the better value?
George Washington University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.21 vs 4.61), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
George Washington University is cheaper — average net price $36,586 per year vs $41,943 at American University. The annual difference of $5,357 adds up to about $21,428 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
George Washington University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $90,873 vs $77,370 at American University. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,503.
Which school is harder to get into?
George Washington University is more selective at 47.1% acceptance vs 62% at American University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. American University reports a D value grade; George Washington University reports C.