Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Columbia University vs Hamilton College

New York, NY · Clinton, NY · Source: IPEDS federal database

Columbia UniversityHamilton College
Acceptance Rate4.2%11.8%
In-State Tuition$69,045$65,740
Out-of-State Tuition$69,045$65,740
Average Net Price$16,526$14,451
Graduation Rate95.0%91.0%

GradFax Analysis

Columbia University accepts 4.2% of applicants. Hamilton College accepts 11.8%. Columbia University's tuition is $69,045. Hamilton College's is $65,740. Hamilton College is cheaper. Columbia University graduates 95% of students in 6 years. Hamilton College graduates 91%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Columbia University profileHamilton College profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Columbia University or Hamilton College?

Columbia University. It accepts 4.2% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Columbia University or Hamilton College more affordable?

Hamilton College has lower published tuition: $65,740 versus $69,045. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Columbia University: 95% of students finish in 6 years. Hamilton College is at 91%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Columbia University vs Hamilton College: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax