Head-to-head · 2026
Western Connecticut State University vs Yale University
Compare average net price ($17,604 at Western Connecticut State University; $23,777 at Yale University), ROI score (8.40 vs 10.57), ten-year median earnings ($59,115 vs $100,533), and admissions selectivity (87% acceptance at Western Connecticut State University; 3.9% at Yale University) using federal College Scorecard data. Yale University has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Yale 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 | Western Connecticut State University | Yale University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.40 | 10.57 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $17,604 ✓ | $23,777 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,115 | $100,533 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 87% | 3.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 51.8% | 95.7% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,147 | $12,975 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,511 | 6,758 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1110 | 1534 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Yale University costs $6,173 more per year than Western Connecticut State University ($23,777 vs $17,604). Yale University graduates report $41,418 higher median earnings after ten years ($100,533 vs $59,115). On EduGradify's model that puts Yale University ahead on projected ROI (10.57 vs 8.40, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Yale University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Western Connecticut State University is accessible at 87% acceptance versus 3.9% (highly competitive) at Yale University.
Frequently asked
Western Connecticut State University vs Yale University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Western Connecticut State University or Yale University the better value?
Yale University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.57 vs 8.40), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Western Connecticut State University is cheaper — average net price $17,604 per year vs $23,777 at Yale University. The annual difference of $6,173 adds up to about $24,692 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Yale University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $100,533 vs $59,115 at Western Connecticut State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $41,418.
Which school is harder to get into?
Yale University is more selective at 3.9% acceptance vs 87% at Western Connecticut State 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. Western Connecticut State University reports a B value grade; Yale University reports B.