Head-to-head · 2026
American University vs The Catholic University of America
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for American University, 3 for The Catholic University of America — even split.
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 | The Catholic University of America |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 4.61 | 6.19 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $41,943 | $29,561 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $77,370 ✓ | $73,250 |
| Acceptance rate | 62% ✓ | 82.8% |
| Graduation rate | 75.5% | 79.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,750 ✓ | $26,000 |
| Enrollment | 7,266 | 3,154 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1381 | — |
| Wins | 3 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
American University costs $12,382 more per year than The Catholic University of America ($41,943 vs $29,561). American University graduates report $4,120 higher median earnings after ten years ($77,370 vs $73,250). On EduGradify's model that puts The Catholic University of America ahead on projected ROI (6.19 vs 4.61, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (The Catholic University of America) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, American University is accessible at 62% acceptance versus 82.8% (accessible) at The Catholic University of America.
Frequently asked
American University vs The Catholic University of America, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is American University or The Catholic University of America the better value?
The Catholic University of America has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.19 vs 4.61), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
The Catholic University of America is cheaper — average net price $29,561 per year vs $41,943 at American University. The annual difference of $12,382 adds up to about $49,528 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
American University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $77,370 vs $73,250 at The Catholic University of America. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,120.
Which school is harder to get into?
American University is more selective at 62% acceptance vs 82.8% at The Catholic University of America.
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; The Catholic University of America reports C.