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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