College Comparison
Caltech vs Northwestern 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
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 7.1% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1490–1560wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255wins | $65,997 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $27,143 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $89,363 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% | 95.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 97.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 8,960wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out Northwestern on 6 of 9 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.
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,255
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,902
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.9%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 8,960
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