Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University is a private nonprofit university in Cleveland, OH ranked #160 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A-, enrolling about 6,108 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 28.7%. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, 92.0% first-year retention, and 87.0% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $38,909, about $21,911 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -51.4%, roughly 136.7 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $75,613. That's about $31,925 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Case Western Reserve University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Case Western Reserve University graduates 87.0% of students within six years and keeps 92.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Case Western Reserve University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $64,671 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,202 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,000 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $81,533 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 17.1% of Case Western Reserve University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,510 to $49,117 depending on family income. Use Case Western Reserve University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $33,489/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $49,117/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $75,613
- 10-Year Median Earnings $75,613
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $21,488
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 85.1%
- Employment Rate 86.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Case Western Reserve University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Case Western Reserve University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Case Western Reserve University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Case Western Reserve University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Case Western Reserve University graduates earn $75,613 median, the -51.4% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 700-750
- SAT Math 730-790
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 32-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 6,108
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 92.0%
- Graduation Rate 87.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 9:1
How to Get Into Case Western Reserve University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Case Western Reserve University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 28.7%, Case Western Reserve University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Case Western Reserve University accepts 28.7% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1430 and 1540 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Case Western Reserve University undergraduates. Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Biomedical/Medical Engineering draw the most students.
- Computer Science 9.1%
- Mechanical Engineering 6.4%
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering 5.8%
- Psychology, General 5.2%
- Biology, General 4.7%
- Economics 4.5%
See more majors
- Finance and Financial Management Services 4.5%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 4.1%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $119,949
- 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $113,649
- 3. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $99,721
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Chemical Engineering $98,005
- 5. Finance and Financial Management Services $92,413
- 6. Mechanical Engineering $92,158
- 7. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $90,949
- 8. Accounting and Related Services $90,949
- 9. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $79,780
- 10. Economics $79,150
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Master's Degree) $189,814
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Doctoral Degree) $183,796
- 3. Dental Residency Programs (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $172,023
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Dentistry (First Professional Degree) $159,604
- 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $124,675
- 6. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $122,004
- 7. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $121,294
- 8. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $119,948
- 9. Medicine (First Professional Degree) $119,638
- 10. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $110,325
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $119,949—52% more than Economics ($79,150). Graduate: Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services programs lead with $189,814 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Case Western Reserve University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Medicine (First Professional Degree, 238 graduates)
- Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree, 197 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 129 graduates)
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degree, 126 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 124 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (64 programs)â–¼
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Biology, General
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Economics
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Cognitive Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Anthropology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mathematics
- Civil Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- English Language and Literature, General
- Statistics
- Marketing
- Sociology
- Polymer/Plastics Engineering
- Nutrition Sciences
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Physics
- Materials Engineering
- International/Global Studies
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- History
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Computer Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Music
- Engineering Physics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Systems Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Philosophy
- Dance
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Environmental Geosciences
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Area Studies
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Education, General
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Engineering, General
- Data Science
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Natural Sciences
- Gerontology
- Architecture
Online Master's Degrees (63 programs)â–¼
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
- Accounting and Related Services
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Public Health
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Operations Research
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Polymer/Plastics Engineering
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Biology, General
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Materials Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Statistics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Philosophy
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Dance
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Computer Engineering
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- History
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Cognitive Science
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- Molecular Medicine
- Genetics
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Nutrition Sciences
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Engineering Science
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Applied Mathematics
Online Doctoral Degrees (51 programs)â–¼
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Chemistry
- Biology, General
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Genetics
- Psychology, General
- Polymer/Plastics Engineering
- Molecular Medicine
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Physics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Systems Engineering
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Computer Engineering
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Materials Engineering
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Social Work
- Music
- Mathematics
- History
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Statistics
- Public Health
- Political Science and Government
- Operations Research
- Nutrition Sciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Engineering Science
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (12 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Social Sciences, General
- Public Health
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Data Analytics
- Biology Technician/Biotechnology Laboratory Technician
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Medicine
- Law
- Dentistry
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 6,108
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 52.2%
- Female Students 47.8%
- Caucasian 34.6%
- Asian 27.3%
- Hispanic 11.8%
- Black 6.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients 17.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Case Western Reserve University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Case Western Reserve University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Case Western Reserve University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Case Western Reserve University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Case Western Reserve University has a diverse student body, with 34.6% identifying as White. About 17.1% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Case Western Reserve University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Case Western Reserve University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Case Western Reserve University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -51.4% ROI. Ranked #160 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $38,909 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $75,613 median earnings. With 87.0% graduating within six years and 92.0% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Case Western Reserve University's Positioning
With a A- grade and #160 ranking, Case Western Reserve University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $38,909 annually, Case Western Reserve University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 92.0% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $27,236 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -51.4% ROI and $75,613 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $28,909+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Case Western Reserve University ranks #160 of 6272 institutions, with 1114 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 87.0% six-year graduation rate sits 24.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 92.0% first-year retention is 15.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -51.4% return on investment is 136.7 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $75,613 run about 73% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $38,909 is roughly $21,791 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 9:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 92.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 86.0% employment rate within three years sits 17.8 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $38,909 is about $21,791 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 17.1% trails the national share by 21.7 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Case Western Reserve University is a private nonprofit university based in Cleveland, OH and earns a A- overall grade. It stands at #160 among 6272 schools Category results include Completion (A), Support (A-), Career Outcomes (A), and Affordability (D+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 92.0% retention and 87.0% six-year graduation. The reported ROI is -51.4%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $38,909 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $81,533.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $42,624 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $21,488 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 17.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $75,613 six years after entry. This is roughly 73% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 86.0% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -51.4% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
28.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Case Western Reserve University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Cleveland, OH 44106
- Website www.case.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$2.19B