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 | Georgetown Washington, DC | Notre Dame Notre Dame, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateUniversity of Notre Dame is more selective | 13% | 11% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1390–1550 | 1455–1560 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 7,569 | 8,818 |
| Avg net price | $40,815 | $26,780 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Georgetown reports higher median earnings | $103,494 | $99,980 |
| Graduation rate | 95% | 95% |
| Median debt | $15,500 | $19,000 |
| Economic mobility | 1.9% | 0.9% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Two elite, highly selective private universities with strong Catholic heritage but divergent campus cultures and value propositions.
By the numbers Georgetown (13% acceptance) is slightly less selective than Notre Dame (11%). Notre Dame’s admitted student SAT middle 50% range (1455–1560) is also marginally higher than Georgetown’s (1390–1550). On outcomes, Georgetown’s 10-year median earnings are $103k versus Notre Dame’s $100k. Financially, Notre Dame presents a stronger value proposition with a lower average net price ($27k vs. $41k) and a higher value multiplier (3.7x vs. 2.5x earnings per dollar of net price). Georgetown shows significantly greater economic mobility (195% rate vs. 90%) and better institutional financial health (DOE score 2.4/3 vs. no score provided for Notre Dame). Both share a 95% graduation rate, but Notre Dame exhibits higher admit-rate volatility (59% vs. 37%).
Where they overlap Both are top-tier national universities with undergraduate enrollments that foster a strong sense of community. They share a historical Catholic foundation that influences aspects of campus life and mission, though the expression of this heritage differs. Each has influential alumni networks known for professional connections in specific sectors.
How they differ The campus environments are distinct: Georgetown is embedded in Washington, D.C., offering an urban atmosphere with access to government, international organizations, and internships. Notre Dame offers a classic, self-contained suburban campus in Indiana, known for its collegiate spirit and tradition. Culturally, Georgetown is often described as more politically engaged and globally oriented, while Notre Dame is frequently characterized as having a stronger, more pervasive communal and traditional campus culture.
Who each suits Georgetown suits the student drawn to politics, international relations, and an urban environment where classroom learning can be applied in Washington, D.C. Notre Dame is a potential fit for the student seeking a campus-centered experience with strong school spirit and tradition, supported by a renowned alumni network, particularly in business and certain engineering fields.
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 | Washington, DC | Notre Dame, IN |
|---|