Head-to-head · 2026
Wesleyan University vs Yale University
Compare average net price ($30,177 at Wesleyan University; $23,777 at Yale University), ROI score (6.12 vs 10.57), ten-year median earnings ($73,897 vs $100,533), and admissions selectivity (16.5% acceptance at Wesleyan University; 3.9% at Yale University) using federal College Scorecard data. Yale University has a 7-0 metric-level edge. Yale 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 | Wesleyan University | Yale University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.12 | 10.57 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $30,177 | $23,777 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $73,897 | $100,533 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 16.5% | 3.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 92.6% | 95.7% ✓ |
| Median debt | $17,000 | $12,975 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,067 | 6,758 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1501 | 1534 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 7 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Wesleyan University costs $6,400 more per year than Yale University ($30,177 vs $23,777). Yale University graduates report $26,636 higher median earnings after ten years ($100,533 vs $73,897). On EduGradify's model that puts Yale University ahead on projected ROI (10.57 vs 6.12, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Yale University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Wesleyan University is selective at 16.5% acceptance versus 3.9% (highly competitive) at Yale University.
Frequently asked
Wesleyan University vs Yale University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Wesleyan University or Yale University the better value?
Yale University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.57 vs 6.12), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Yale University is cheaper — average net price $23,777 per year vs $30,177 at Wesleyan University. The annual difference of $6,400 adds up to about $25,600 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Yale University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $100,533 vs $73,897 at Wesleyan University. The annual gap in the federal data is $26,636.
Which school is harder to get into?
Yale University is more selective at 3.9% acceptance vs 16.5% at Wesleyan 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. Wesleyan University reports a C value grade; Yale University reports B.