College Comparison
Boston University vs Northeastern University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Boston University
Boston, MA
School
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Boston University | Northeastern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 10.8% | 9.9%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1400–1520 | 1460–1550wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 32–34 | 33–35wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,168 | $63,141wins |
| Avg Net Price | $26,996wins | $32,116 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $83,238 | $92,538wins |
| Graduation Rate | 90.0% | 90.4%wins |
| Retention Rate | 94.5% | 97.5%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1wins | 16:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 17,850wins | 15,719 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northeastern edges out Boston University on 7 of 10 measurable categories — including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Boston University Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $26,996
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- ✓Total Enrollment: 17,850
Northeastern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 9.9%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1460–1550
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,141
Want a deeper comparison?
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