Syracuse University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus (UVA)

Syracuse University and the University of Virginia-Main Campus, both esteemed institutions of higher learning, offer distinct educational experiences. Syracuse, a private research university in New York, boasts an acceptance rate of 50%, while Virginia, a public research university, stands at 26%. Syracuse students predominantly pursue Communications, Business, and Engineering, while Virginia students favor Engineering, Business, and Social Sciences. Syracuse's student body is more diverse, with 13% international students compared to Virginia's 10%. Both universities boast impressive graduation rates, with Syracuse at 86% and Virginia at 94%. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to discover more key differences and make an informed decision about your academic journey.

	Syracuse University	University of Virginia-Main Campus
Overview
Location	Syracuse, New York	Charlottesville, Virginia
Campus setting	City: Midsize	Suburb: Small
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Public
Calendar system	Semester	Semester
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	90.0%	97.0%
Common app member	Yes	Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	59.2%	20.7%
Application fees	Undergraduate: $85 Graduate: $75	Undergraduate: $75 Graduate: $85
SAT range	1220 - 1400	1380 - 1500
ACT range	27 - 32	32 - 35
Students submitting SAT score	25.0%	52.0%
Students submitting ACT score	13.0%	21.0%
Total number of applicants	39,682	47,971
Total number of admissions given out	23,489	9,951
Admitted students who chose to enroll	3,765	3,889
Yield rate	16.0%	39.1%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	N/A
High school GPA	Not required	Not required
Recommendation letters	Required	Required
High school transcript	Not required	Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	Not required

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$77,896	In state: $36,314 Out of state: $70,696
Average net price	$43,545	$20,401
Tuition	$55,920	In state: $16,010 Out of state: $49,710
Room & board	Room/dormitory: $9,075 Meal plan: $7,820	Room/dormitory: $7,110 Meal plan: $5,550
Available payment plans	Prepaid tuition plan Tuition payment plan	Prepaid tuition plan Guaranteed tuition plan Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	86.0% Average amount $31,590	46.0% Average amount $19,612
Students receiving federal student loan	37.0% Average amount $5,350	25.0% Average amount $4,845
Students taking out private loans	7.0% Average amount $26,377	6.0% Average amount $11,030

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	14,778 Men 45.4% Women 54.6%	17,294 Men 43.7% Women 56.3%
Graduate students	6,994 Men 48.0% Women 52.0%	8,711 Men 46.9% Women 53.1%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Low	Low
Out-of-state students	67.2%	35.2%
International students	16.9%	8.8%
Campus local/setting	City: Midsize	Suburb: Small
Dormitory capacity	8,291	7,645
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	New York New Jersey Mississippi California Pennsylvania	Virginia New York Maryland Pennsylvania New Jersey

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Computer and Information Science Engineering Communication and Journalism Public Administration and Social Service	Business Health Professions Engineering Social Sciences Education
Students to faculty ratio	14:1	15:1
Institutional accreditation	Middle States Commission on Higher Education	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome
Graduation rate	82.4%	93.7%
Dropout rate	17.0%	2.3%
Transferred out	N/A	3.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Information Science/Studies (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $78,789 Year 2: $88,195 Year 3: $94,942 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $98,396 Year 2: $77,966 Year 3: $88,763 Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $63,925 Year 2: $66,989 Year 3: $82,179 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $68,264 Year 2: $64,087 Year 3: $79,186 Civil Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,439 Year 2: $66,653 Year 3: $79,132 Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $65,871 Year 2: $62,343 Year 3: $77,924 Business/Managerial Economics (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $62,674 Year 3: $77,843 Information Science/Studies (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,673 Year 2: $67,101 Year 3: $76,227 Law (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $59,689 Year 2: $56,776 Year 3: $74,295 Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $64,229 Year 2: $61,303 Year 3: $73,883	Law (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $185,710 Year 2: $162,255 Year 3: $193,013 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $157,071 Year 2: $155,263 Year 3: $176,237 Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $86,350 Year 2: $101,406 Year 3: $125,729 Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $103,426 Year 2: $107,256 Year 3: $120,362 Systems Engineering (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $108,239 Year 2: $95,739 Year 3: $109,956 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $83,639 Year 2: $92,077 Year 3: $108,272 Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $84,682 Year 2: $90,146 Year 3: $101,904 Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $76,602 Year 2: $82,440 Year 3: $95,939 Systems Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $79,487 Year 2: $82,808 Year 3: $94,931 Public Policy Analysis (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $54,807 Year 2: $70,596 Year 3: $84,597

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key academic differences between Syracuse University and the University of Virginia (UVA)?

Syracuse University is particularly strong in communications, journalism, architecture, and public affairs, boasting renowned schools and programs in these areas. UVA, on the other hand, excels in its highly-ranked undergraduate programs in business (McIntire School of Commerce), engineering, and its strong liberal arts foundation. UVA also has a notable law school and medical school. Consider your specific academic interests when making your decision.
How does the campus environment differ between Syracuse and UVA?

Syracuse University offers a classic, residential college experience with a vibrant campus life, especially known for its school spirit and strong sense of community. The campus is located in Syracuse, New York, and experiences all four seasons. UVA, situated in Charlottesville, Virginia, has a historic campus with a strong emphasis on tradition and a more academically focused environment. UVA's campus is known for its beautiful architecture and the surrounding area offers a blend of history and outdoor activities.
What is the cost of attendance like at Syracuse University versus UVA?

The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, varies. Generally, Syracuse University tends to be more expensive than UVA, especially for out-of-state students. UVA offers lower tuition rates for in-state students. Financial aid packages and scholarships can significantly impact the net cost at both institutions, so it's essential to compare the aid offered by each school based on your individual circumstances.
How do the student populations compare at Syracuse and UVA?

Both universities have diverse student bodies, but there are some differences. Syracuse University has a slightly larger undergraduate population than UVA. UVA has a strong reputation for attracting high-achieving students from across the country and internationally. Both universities foster a diverse and inclusive environment, but the specific demographics and campus culture may vary.
What are the career services and opportunities like at Syracuse and UVA?

Both universities provide robust career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Syracuse University leverages its strong alumni network, particularly in communications and media, to provide career opportunities. UVA's career services are well-regarded, with strong connections to industries such as business, law, and government. The specific career opportunities available may align with the strengths of each university's academic programs.
How does the social life and extracurricular activities differ at Syracuse and UVA?

Syracuse University is known for its active social scene, with a strong emphasis on Greek life, athletics (particularly basketball), and a wide range of student organizations. UVA also has a vibrant social life, with a strong emphasis on traditions, student-run organizations, and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. Both universities offer a wide array of options for students to get involved and build community, but the specific focus and culture may differ.
What are the athletic programs like at Syracuse and UVA?

Both universities compete in Division I athletics. Syracuse University is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and is particularly known for its successful basketball and lacrosse programs. UVA is also a member of the ACC and has strong programs in a variety of sports, including basketball, football, and soccer. Both schools offer a great experience for student-athletes and fans alike.
How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

Syracuse University's location in Syracuse, New York, offers access to a city with a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, as well as proximity to other major cities like New York City. UVA's location in Charlottesville, Virginia, provides access to a historic city with a thriving arts scene, outdoor recreation opportunities in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, and a more Southern cultural experience.
What are the admission requirements and selectivity like at Syracuse and UVA?

Both Syracuse University and UVA are selective institutions. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic record, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. UVA generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate than Syracuse, indicating a higher level of selectivity. It's important to review the specific requirements and deadlines for each university.
Which university is a better fit for me?

The best fit depends on your individual academic interests, preferred campus environment, and career goals. If you are interested in communications, journalism, or architecture and prefer a vibrant campus with strong school spirit, Syracuse University might be a good choice. If you are interested in business, engineering, or a strong liberal arts foundation and value tradition and a more academically focused environment, UVA might be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, if possible, and researching the specific programs and opportunities that align with your interests.

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