Head-to-head · 2026
George Mason University vs William & Mary
Compare average net price ($17,915 at George Mason University; $19,096 at William & Mary), ROI score (10.65 vs 9.62), ten-year median earnings ($76,343 vs $73,490), and admissions selectivity (87.5% acceptance at George Mason University; 34.1% at William & Mary) using federal College Scorecard data. William & Mary has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. George Mason 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 | George Mason University | William & Mary |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.65 ✓ | 9.62 |
| Avg net price | $17,915 ✓ | $19,096 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $76,343 ✓ | $73,490 |
| Acceptance rate | 87.5% | 34.1% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% | 89.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $18,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 27,752 | 7,055 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1274 | 1473 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
William & Mary costs $1,181 more per year than George Mason University ($19,096 vs $17,915). George Mason University graduates report $2,853 higher median earnings after ten years ($76,343 vs $73,490). On EduGradify's model that puts George Mason University ahead on projected ROI (10.65 vs 9.62, 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 34.1% (selective) at William & Mary.
Frequently asked
George Mason University vs William & Mary, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is George Mason University or William & Mary the better value?
George Mason University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.65 vs 9.62), 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 $19,096 at William & Mary. The annual difference of $1,181 adds up to about $4,724 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
George Mason University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $76,343 vs $73,490 at William & Mary. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,853.
Which school is harder to get into?
William & Mary is more selective at 34.1% 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; William & Mary reports B.