Head-to-head · 2026
American University vs Howard University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 6 wins for American University, 1 for Howard University — American University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | American University | Howard University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 4.61 ✓ | 3.12 |
| Avg net price | $41,943 ✓ | $50,539 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $77,370 ✓ | $63,066 |
| Acceptance rate | 62% | 41.3% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 75.5% ✓ | 70% |
| Median debt | $22,750 ✓ | $24,500 |
| Enrollment | 7,266 | 10,108 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1381 ✓ | 1213 |
| Wins | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Howard University costs $8,596 more per year than American University ($50,539 vs $41,943). American University graduates report $14,304 higher median earnings after ten years ($77,370 vs $63,066). On EduGradify's model that puts American University ahead on projected ROI (4.61 vs 3.12, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (American 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 41.3% (selective) at Howard University.
Frequently asked
American University vs Howard University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is American University or Howard University the better value?
American University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (4.61 vs 3.12), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
American University is cheaper — average net price $41,943 per year vs $50,539 at Howard University. The annual difference of $8,596 adds up to about $34,384 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
American University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $77,370 vs $63,066 at Howard University. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,304.
Which school is harder to get into?
Howard University is more selective at 41.3% 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; Howard University reports D.