At $22,117/yr net price, Washington University in St Louis graduates earn $86,182/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $52,182/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $22,117 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $88,468 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $86,182/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$52,182/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 94.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,391/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $2,321/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $1,863/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,344/yr |
| $110,001+ | $42,712/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $112,270 | $81,700 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $99,517 | $15,250 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $91,744 | $19,500 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $85,538 | |
| Law. | Doctoral | $80,755 | $92,540 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $78,896 | $17,500 |
| Systems Engineering. | Bachelor | $78,343 | $23,139 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $67,995 | $12,503 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Doctoral | $64,990 | |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $64,379 |
The Risk Factor
94.4% of students at Washington University in St Louis graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Washington University in St. Louis delivers strong financial returns despite its high sticker price, with graduates earning $86,182 ten years out while carrying relatively modest debt loads of $17,500. The school's 94% graduation rate means you're likely to finish your degree and start earning.
Business administration majors see the highest returns at $112,270 annually, though they also carry the heaviest debt burden at $81,700. Computer science offers the best balance with $99,517 in earnings against just $15,250 in debt. Finance majors earn $91,744 with manageable $19,500 debt loads. Law graduates face a tougher equation, earning $80,755 while managing $92,540 in debt.
The biggest financial risk here is missing out on aid. Only 16% of students receive need-based aid, suggesting the school primarily serves wealthy families who pay full price. If you don't qualify for aid and aren't wealthy, the net price of $22,117 annually could strain your budget even with strong post-graduation earnings.
This school works financially for students from affluent families who can afford the costs upfront, or those who secure significant merit scholarships. The strong alumni network in St. Louis and beyond helps graduates land high-paying jobs that justify the investment. Computer science and business majors get the best value proposition.
You should look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid or come from a middle-income family that won't qualify for assistance but struggles with the costs. The low aid percentage suggests limited merit scholarship opportunities for most applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Washington University in St Louis worth the high tuition cost?
Washington University in St Louis offers strong ROI with graduates earning $86,182 annually and relatively low median debt of $17,500. The generous financial aid brings net costs down to around $22,117 per year for most students, making the investment more manageable than the sticker price suggests.
Which majors at Washington University in St Louis have the best job prospects?
Business administration graduates earn the highest at $112,270 annually, followed by computer science majors at $99,517. Finance majors also see strong returns at $91,744, while law graduates earn $80,755.
How much student debt do Washington University in St Louis graduates typically have?
The median debt load is $17,500, which is relatively low for a selective private university. Combined with high post-graduation earnings, most graduates can manage their debt payments without significant financial strain.
Does Washington University in St Louis provide good financial aid?
Yes, the average net price of $22,117 is significantly lower than the full tuition, indicating substantial financial aid packages. The school meets demonstrated financial need for most students, though aid is primarily need-based rather than merit-based.