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 | Georgia Tech Atlanta, GA | UVA Charlottesville, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateGeorgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus is more selective | 14% | 17% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1370–1540 | 1410–1540 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 18,785 | 17,597 |
| Avg net price | $12,116 | $21,565 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Georgia Tech reports higher median earnings | $102,772 | $86,863 |
| Graduation rate | 94% | 96% |
| Median debt | $21,672 | $17,500 |
| Economic mobility | — | — |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Public | Public |
By the numbers The data reveals a clear quantitative divergence. Georgia Tech presents a stronger financial value case, with a 10-year median graduate earnings of $103k against an average net price of $12k, yielding a value multiplier of 8.5× earnings per dollar of cost. UVA, while still prestigious, shows a lower earnings figure ($87k) and a significantly higher net price ($22k), resulting in a 4.0× value multiplier. Selectivity is similar but slightly more competitive at Georgia Tech (14% vs. 17% acceptance), with comparable SAT ranges (1370–1540 vs. 1410–1540). Both schools have excellent and stable graduation rates (94% vs. 96%) with moderate year-to-year admit-rate volatility (38% vs. 42%).
Where they overlap Both institutions are leading public universities with selective admissions, strong graduation outcomes, and degrees that carry significant national weight, particularly in technical and professional fields.
How they differ The cultures and settings are distinct. Georgia Tech is characterized by a highly driven, collaborative, and problem-solving culture centered in the heart of Atlanta, offering integration with industry and an urban environment. UVA offers a more traditional suburban collegiate experience in Charlottesville, steeped in history and a strong liberal arts core alongside its professional programs, often described as having a balanced social-academic scene.
Who each suits Georgia Tech suits the pragmatic, career-oriented student who thrives in a rigorous, STEM-centric environment and values access to a major city's opportunities. UVA is ideal for the student seeking a classic, well-rounded university experience with strong traditions, a blend of liberal arts and professional studies, and a campus community.
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 | Atlanta, GA | Charlottesville, VA |
|---|
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.