Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs George Mason University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
George Mason University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $71,660 in 2.6 years versus 3 years at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, on median earnings of $76,343 vs $81,698 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | George Mason University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $24,953 | $17,915 |
| Total net cost | $99,812 | $71,660 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $81,698 | $76,343 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 3 yrs | 2.6 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $566,948 | $488,000 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.