University Of Delaware

University of Delaware admits 65.1% of applicants, meaning roughly 2 in 3 applicants receive offers of admission. This places the university in the Moderately Selective category (50-75% admission rate), making it more accessible than highly selective institutions while maintaining academic standards above open-enrollment schools.

The peer median admission rate of 78.1% indicates University of Delaware is somewhat more selective than typical public research universities of similar size and mission. With a 90.1% retention rate and 78.8% six-year graduation rate, the university successfully enrolls students prepared for academic success.

For most qualified applicants with competitive academic credentials, admission to University of Delaware represents a realistic possibility rather than a reach outcome. Students should approach University of Delaware as a solid match or safety school rather than a reach, allowing them to focus on demonstrating fit with specific academic programs.

The moderate selectivity creates opportunities for strong students to gain admission while building balanced college lists that include both more and less selective alternatives.

University of Delaware's published cost of attendance reaches $29,347 annually, including $16,080 in-state tuition, $39,720 out-of-state tuition, $14,838 for room and board, and $1,000 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays $16,931 after financial aid, representing $12,416 in average financial aid savings.

This net price sits slightly above the peer median of $15,590, indicating University of Delaware costs moderately more than similar public research universities. The gap between sticker price and actual cost demonstrates significant financial aid distribution, though not as generous as institutions with larger endowments.

Out-of-state students face substantially higher costs given Delaware's small population and limited state subsidy for non-residents. In-state students benefit from reasonable tuition rates competitive with regional public universities, though room and board costs reflect the Mid-Atlantic region's higher living expenses.

The $1,341 premium over peer institutions suggests families should budget accordingly while recognizing stronger graduate earnings help offset higher educational costs.

University of Delaware graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over their early careers. Median earnings rise from $58,846 six years after enrollment to $69,215 at eight years and $72,950 at ten years, representing 24% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes reflect a ten-year cohort of 3,920 graduates, providing high confidence in reported figures. Low-income graduates earn $56,200, ranking in the top 25% nationally for outcomes among lower-income students.

The earnings distribution shows meaningful variation, with the 75th percentile earning $101,260 compared to $50,480 at the 25th percentile—a 2:1 ratio reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory. Approximately 27.8% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education.

University of Delaware compares favorably to peer institutions, with graduates earning $12,407 more than the peer median of $60,543.

University of Delaware offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for ranking analysis. Exercise Science and Kinesiology stands out with a #1 national ranking, graduating 201 students with median earnings of $69,499 and a perfect 100 value score.

Criminology also ranks #1 nationally, producing 132 graduates earning $60,214. Digital Marketing ranks #25 nationally with 229 graduates earning $72,845, while Information Resources Management ranks #7 nationally with 87 graduates earning $96,013.

Banking and Financial Support Services represents the largest high-earning program with 289 graduates earning $83,952 annually. Business Administration and Management graduates 141 students with $77,898 median earnings and ranks #40 nationally.

These programs demonstrate University of Delaware's strength in business, health sciences, and applied fields with strong labor market demand.