Washington and Lee University: Is It Worth It?

Graduate earnings, costs, and ROI analysis with federal data

By Appffeine Research · Updated February 5, 2026

Overview

Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Washington and Lee University actually earn.

Data last updated: February 5, 2026

| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $94,810 | | In-State Tuition | $64,525 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $64,525 | | Acceptance Rate | 17.4% | | Graduation Rate | 94.9% | | Student Population | 1,884 |

Graduate Earnings

According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Washington and Lee University graduates is $94,810 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.

This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.

How This Compares

Compare Washington and Lee University's graduate earnings to:

  • [Similar schools in VA](/schools/va)
  • [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
  • [National averages by major](/majors)

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of attending Washington and Lee University:

| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $64,525 | $64,525 | | Room & Board | $17,685 | $17,685 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $328,840 | $328,840 |

Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

ROI Analysis

To calculate your personal ROI:

  • Estimate your total cost after financial aid
  • Compare to median earnings of $94,810
  • Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
  • Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
[Calculate Your Personal ROI →](/tools/roi-calculator)

Top Majors at Washington and Lee University

The highest-earning majors at Washington and Lee University typically include:

  • Engineering and Computer Science programs
  • Business and Finance degrees
  • Healthcare and Nursing programs
[See earnings by major at Washington and Lee University →](/school/washington-and-lee-university/majors)

Similar Schools to Consider

Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:

  • Schools in VA with similar outcomes
  • Institutions with comparable admission rates
  • Universities with strong programs in your intended major
[Compare with similar schools →](/compare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington and Lee University worth the tuition?

With median graduate earnings of $94,810 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $328,840, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.

What percentage of Washington and Lee University students graduate?

The graduation rate at Washington and Lee University is 94.9%, which is above the national average.

How competitive is admission to Washington and Lee University?

Washington and Lee University has an acceptance rate of 17.4% with an average SAT score of 1504.

---

Add Washington and Lee University to Your College List

Track deadlines, compare costs, and see how Washington and Lee University fits your college plan. Appffeine pulls federal earnings data so you can make an informed decision.

Early adopter special: The first 1,000 families get Pro free for 2 years — unlimited schools, family sharing, and deadline reminders included.

[Add to My List →](/api/login)

---

This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.