College Comparison
Northeastern University 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
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northeastern | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 9.9% | 7.1%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1460–1550 | 1490–1560wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,141wins | $65,997 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,116 | $27,143wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $92,538wins | $89,363 |
| Graduation Rate | 90.4% | 95.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.5%wins | 97.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 16:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 15,719wins | 8,960 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Northeastern on 5 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.
Northeastern Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,141
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $92,538
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.5%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 15,719
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓Avg Net Price: $27,143
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.9%
Want a deeper comparison?
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