Yale University
Yale University has an acceptance rate of 3.9%, average net price of $23,777, and a national rank of #17 (Grade A+), with a 95.7% six-year graduation rate, and median earnings of $81,765 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Yale University is a private nonprofit university in New Haven, CT. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Economics.
Day to day, students benefit from a 5:1 student-faculty ratio. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 71.7%, roughly 21.8 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to ambitious students who thrive in an elite, research-powered setting and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Yale University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Yale University graduates 95.7% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Yale 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 | Not reported |
| Books and Supplies | Not reported |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $88,300 |
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: Only 0.0% of Yale University students receive Pell Grants — far below the national average, underscoring equity challenges.
ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $81,765
- 10-Year Median Earnings $81,765
- Average Years to Graduate 4.8 years
- Average Student Debt $11,648
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 86.1%
- Employment Rate 73.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Yale 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.
Yale University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Yale University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Yale University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Yale University graduates earn $81,765 median six years after enrollment, +87% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 730-780
- SAT Math 740-790
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 33-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate Not reported
- Graduation Rate 95.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 5:1
How to Get Into Yale University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Yale 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 3.9%, Yale University is extremely 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: With a 3.9% acceptance rate, Yale University is extremely selective. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their class. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1470 and 1570 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Yale University undergraduates. Economics, Political Science and Government, and History draw the most students.
- Economics 11.9%
- Political Science and Government 9.6%
- History 6.5%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 5.8%
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences 5.6%
- Research and Experimental Psychology 4.2%
See more majors
- Mathematics 3.7%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 3.7%
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 and Information Sciences, General $271,466
- 2. Economics $131,171
- 3. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other $130,467
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Political Science and Government $123,834
- 5. Area Studies $81,531
- 6. Engineering Science $73,378
- 7. English Language and Literature, General $62,925
- 8. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $61,133
- 9. History $54,700
- 10. Research and Experimental Psychology $47,874
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Law (Doctoral Degree) $221,083
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $213,202
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $152,801
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $129,385
- 5. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $128,563
- 6. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $127,969
- 7. Medicine (Doctoral Degree) $105,217
- 8. Natural Resources Conservation and Research (Master's Degree) $95,750
- 9. Public Health (Master's Degree) $94,970
- 10. Natural Resources Management and Policy (Master's Degree) $90,713
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $271,466—467% more than Research and Experimental Psychology ($47,874). Graduate: Law programs lead with $221,083 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Yale 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
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree, 565 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate, 224 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 204 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 198 graduates)
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research (Master's Degree, 168 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 (48 programs)▼
- Economics
- Political Science and Government
- History
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Mathematics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Statistics
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Area Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Engineering Science
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Cognitive Science
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Philosophy
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Architecture
- Sociology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Anthropology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Computer Programming
- Applied Mathematics
- Music
- Chemical Engineering
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering Physics
- Physical Sciences
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
Online Master's Degrees (63 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Public Health
- Music
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Economics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- History
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Chemistry
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Physics
- Political Science and Government
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Area Studies
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Statistics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Genetics
- Design and Applied Arts
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Philosophy
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Engineering Physics
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Architecture
- Applied Mathematics
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Public Policy Analysis
- Physical Sciences
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, General
- Behavioral Sciences
Online Doctoral Degrees (50 programs)▼
- Physics
- Chemistry
- History
- Political Science and Government
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Economics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Music
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Genetics
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Area Studies
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Anthropology
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Engineering Physics
- Public Health
- Mechanical Engineering
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Sociology
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Statistics
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Architecture
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Applied Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Engineering, General
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Music
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)▼
- Music
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Law
- Medicine
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 0.0%
- Female Students 0.0%
- Caucasian 31.2%
- Asian 21.9%
- Hispanic 16.6%
- Black 9.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 0.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Yale University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Yale University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Yale 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 Yale University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Yale University has a diverse student body, with 31.2% identifying as White. About 20.4% 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 Yale 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 Yale University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Yale University ranks among the country's most prestigious, delivering a 71.7% ROI though 1443 institutions deliver higher returns at lower costs.
The institution achieves 57.5% four-year and 95.7% six-year completion ratesand maintains 98.8% first-year retention. However, the $23,777 annual net price positions this institution at the higher end of college costs. Post-graduation median earnings of $81,765 reflect strong career outcomes typical of selective institutions.
Value Analysis: Is Yale University Worth It?
Ranking #17 of 6119, Yale University delivers a A+ overall grade with 99.1/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total).
For High-Achieving Students: Applicants pursuing careers where institutional prestige and professional networks drive opportunities—such as finance, consulting, law, and academia—benefit most from Yale University's brand value and alumni connections. The school's reputation provides career acceleration that may justify the premium cost for specific fields.
Financial Aid Recipients: Students receiving substantial need-based aid (bringing actual costs below $11,888 annually) access elite education at a competitive price point. Pell-eligible students often pay less here than at many public universities.
Alternative Considerations: Students in fields where skills and credentials matter more than brand name—particularly STEM, healthcare, and technical fields—should compare outcomes against public research universities offering similar education at 40-60% lower cost. Our data shows 1443 institutions deliver superior ROI metrics.
Bottom Line: Yale University excels in reputation and student experience, reflected in its 98.8% retention rate. However, value-conscious students should weigh the $23,777 annual investment against 1443 alternatives offering stronger financial returns. The "best" choice depends on your field, financial situation, and career goals—not rankings alone.
Key Takeaways
- 95.7% six-year graduation rate sits 33.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 98.8% first-year retention is 22.0 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 71.7% return on investment is 21.8 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $81,765 run about 87% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $23,777 is roughly $6,350 higher than the national median of $17,426.
Helpfulness for Students
- 5:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 98.8% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 73.0% employment rate within three years sits 4.8 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $23,777 is about $6,350 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Yale University—a private nonprofit university in New Haven, CT—at A+ overall. It is currently ranked #17 nationally Grades by category break down as Completion A+, Support A+, Career Outcomes A, and Affordability C+.
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.
Expect about 95.7% of students to graduate within six years. Return on investment currently measures 71.7% for this program.
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 $23,777 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $88,300.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $64,523 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $11,648 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
Pell Grant participation data is not reported.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $81,765 at the median. Compared with the national median, that's 87% higher.
Employment outcomes report about 73.0% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 71.7%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
3.9% 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 Yale 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yale University's acceptance rate?
Yale University's acceptance rate is 3.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Yale University cost?
At Yale University, the average net price after aid is $23,777. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Yale University's ranking?
Yale University ranks #17 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Yale University's graduation rate?
At Yale University, the six-year graduation rate is 95.7%.
What are Yale University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Yale University report median earnings of $81,765 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
Contact Information
- Address New Haven, CT 06520
- Website www.yale.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$40.75B