Head-to-head · 2026
Trinity College vs Wesleyan University
Compare average net price ($34,832 at Trinity College; $30,177 at Wesleyan University), ROI score (6.52 vs 6.12), ten-year median earnings ($90,779 vs $73,897), and admissions selectivity (29.3% acceptance at Trinity College; 16.5% at Wesleyan University) using federal College Scorecard data. Wesleyan University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Trinity College 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 | Trinity College | Wesleyan University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.52 ✓ | 6.12 |
| Avg net price | $34,832 | $30,177 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $90,779 ✓ | $73,897 |
| Acceptance rate | 29.3% | 16.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 83.8% | 92.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $17,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,146 | 3,067 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1415 | 1501 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Trinity College costs $4,655 more per year than Wesleyan University ($34,832 vs $30,177). Trinity College graduates report $16,882 higher median earnings after ten years ($90,779 vs $73,897). On EduGradify's model that puts Trinity College ahead on projected ROI (6.52 vs 6.12, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Trinity College) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Trinity College is selective at 29.3% acceptance versus 16.5% (selective) at Wesleyan University.
Frequently asked
Trinity College vs Wesleyan University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Trinity College or Wesleyan University the better value?
Trinity College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.52 vs 6.12), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Wesleyan University is cheaper — average net price $30,177 per year vs $34,832 at Trinity College. The annual difference of $4,655 adds up to about $18,620 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Trinity College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $90,779 vs $73,897 at Wesleyan University. The annual gap in the federal data is $16,882.
Which school is harder to get into?
Wesleyan University is more selective at 16.5% acceptance vs 29.3% at Trinity College.
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. Trinity College reports a C value grade; Wesleyan University reports C.