Head-to-head · 2026
George Mason University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus
Compare average net price ($17,915 at George Mason University; $21,565 at University of Virginia-Main Campus), ROI score (10.65 vs 10.07), ten-year median earnings ($76,343 vs $86,863), and admissions selectivity (87.5% acceptance at George Mason University; 16.8% at University of Virginia-Main Campus) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Virginia-Main Campus has a 5-2 metric-level edge. George Mason University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
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 | George Mason University | University of Virginia-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.65 ✓ | 10.07 |
| Avg net price | $17,915 ✓ | $21,565 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $76,343 | $86,863 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 87.5% | 16.8% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% | 95.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $17,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 27,752 | 17,597 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1274 | 1480 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Virginia-Main Campus costs $3,650 more per year than George Mason University ($21,565 vs $17,915). University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates report $10,520 higher median earnings after ten years ($86,863 vs $76,343). On EduGradify's model that puts George Mason University ahead on projected ROI (10.65 vs 10.07, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (George Mason University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, George Mason University is accessible at 87.5% acceptance versus 16.8% (selective) at University of Virginia-Main Campus.
Frequently asked
George Mason University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is George Mason University or University of Virginia-Main Campus the better value?
George Mason University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.65 vs 10.07), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
George Mason University is cheaper — average net price $17,915 per year vs $21,565 at University of Virginia-Main Campus. The annual difference of $3,650 adds up to about $14,600 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Virginia-Main Campus reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $86,863 vs $76,343 at George Mason University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,520.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Virginia-Main Campus is more selective at 16.8% acceptance vs 87.5% at George Mason 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. George Mason University reports a B value grade; University of Virginia-Main Campus reports B.