Head-to-head · 2026
George Mason University vs Washington and Lee University
Compare average net price ($17,915 at George Mason University; $23,781 at Washington and Lee University), ROI score (10.65 vs 9.97), ten-year median earnings ($76,343 vs $94,810), and admissions selectivity (87.5% acceptance at George Mason University; 14% at Washington and Lee University) using federal College Scorecard data. Washington and Lee University has a 4-2 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 | Washington and Lee University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.65 ✓ | 9.97 |
| Avg net price | $17,915 ✓ | $23,781 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $76,343 | $94,810 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 87.5% | 14% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% | 93.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $19,500 |
| Enrollment | 27,752 | 1,881 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1274 | 1498 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washington and Lee University costs $5,866 more per year than George Mason University ($23,781 vs $17,915). Washington and Lee University graduates report $18,467 higher median earnings after ten years ($94,810 vs $76,343). On EduGradify's model that puts George Mason University ahead on projected ROI (10.65 vs 9.97, 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 14% (highly competitive) at Washington and Lee University.
Frequently asked
George Mason University vs Washington and Lee University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is George Mason University or Washington and Lee University the better value?
George Mason University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.65 vs 9.97), 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 $23,781 at Washington and Lee University. The annual difference of $5,866 adds up to about $23,464 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washington and Lee University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $94,810 vs $76,343 at George Mason University. The annual gap in the federal data is $18,467.
Which school is harder to get into?
Washington and Lee University is more selective at 14% 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; Washington and Lee University reports B.