College comparison
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric | Denison University Granville, OH | Tulane New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateTulane University of Louisiana is more selective | 17% | 14% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1320–1490 | 1400–1520 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 2,380 | 7,767 |
| Avg net price | $40,007 | $39,949 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Denison University reports higher median earnings | $67,753 | $63,268 |
| Graduation rate | 79% | 86% |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $20,500 |
| Economic mobility | 0.9% | — |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Denison and Tulane are both selective private universities, but they offer distinctly different environments and outcomes.
By the numbers Quantitatively, Tulane is slightly more selective (14% acceptance vs. 17%) with a higher middle-50% SAT range (1400–1520 vs. 1320–1490). On outcomes, Denison’s 10-year median earnings are $68k versus Tulane’s $63k, creating a slightly better financial value per dollar of net price (1.7× vs. 1.6×) despite identical average net prices of $40k. Denison shows exceptional economic mobility (94%) and high admit-rate volatility (72%), indicating fluctuating selectivity. Tulane’s admit-rate volatility is lower at 35%. Denison’s graduation rate is 79%, while Tulane’s is 86%. Denison also has a published DOE financial-health score of 2.2 out of 3.
Where they overlap Both are private institutions with similar net price points and competitive admissions. They are committed to providing a residential undergraduate experience with active campus life.
How they differ The core difference is environment and culture. Denison offers a suburban liberal arts campus experience in Ohio. Tulane provides an urban experience in New Orleans, with a larger university atmosphere.
Who each suits Denison suits a student seeking a liberal arts college community on a classic campus, with strong indications of economic mobility. Tulane is ideal for a student drawn to a vibrant city and a more bustling campus scene, alongside its graduation rate.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.
| Location | Granville, OH | New Orleans, LA |
|---|