American University: Is It Worth It?
Washington, District of Columbia · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
3.6
Net Price/Year
$41,943
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$77,370
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$22,750
at graduation
Is American University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $77,370 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $41,943 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $167,772.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 2.2 years.
The median graduate leaves with $22,750 in debt, which represents about 29%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
62.0%
Avg SAT
1381
ACT Midpoint
31
Enrollment
7,266
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
77.0%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
88.2%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
219000.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$58,771
Out-of-State Tuition
$58,771
Avg Net Price
$41,943
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American University worth the money?
Based on federal data, American University graduates earn a median of $77,370 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $22,750 at graduation. The ROI score is 3.6.
What do American University graduates earn?
The median earnings for American University graduates is $61,328 six years after enrollment and $77,370 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at American University?
The acceptance rate at American University is 62.0%.
How much debt do American University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for American University students is $22,750.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.