Head-to-head · 2026
Radford University vs Washington and Lee University
Compare average net price ($14,578 at Radford University; $23,781 at Washington and Lee University), ROI score (9.22 vs 9.97), ten-year median earnings ($53,739 vs $94,810), and admissions selectivity (89.5% acceptance at Radford University; 14% at Washington and Lee University) using federal College Scorecard data. Washington and Lee University has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Washington and Lee 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 | Radford University | Washington and Lee University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.22 | 9.97 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,578 ✓ | $23,781 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,739 | $94,810 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 89.5% | 14% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 48.7% | 93.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,000 | $19,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 6,038 | 1,881 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1060 | 1498 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washington and Lee University costs $9,203 more per year than Radford University ($23,781 vs $14,578). Washington and Lee University graduates report $41,071 higher median earnings after ten years ($94,810 vs $53,739). On EduGradify's model that puts Washington and Lee University ahead on projected ROI (9.97 vs 9.22, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Washington and Lee University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Radford University is accessible at 89.5% acceptance versus 14% (highly competitive) at Washington and Lee University.
Frequently asked
Radford University vs Washington and Lee University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Radford University or Washington and Lee University the better value?
Washington and Lee University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.97 vs 9.22), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Radford University is cheaper — average net price $14,578 per year vs $23,781 at Washington and Lee University. The annual difference of $9,203 adds up to about $36,812 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washington and Lee University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $94,810 vs $53,739 at Radford University. The annual gap in the federal data is $41,071.
Which school is harder to get into?
Washington and Lee University is more selective at 14% acceptance vs 89.5% at Radford 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. Radford University reports a B value grade; Washington and Lee University reports B.