College Comparison
Northeastern University vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst: 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
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northeastern | UMass Amherst |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 9.9%wins | 57.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1460–1550wins | 1300–1480 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,141 | $39,293wins |
| Avg Net Price | $32,116 | $23,691wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $92,538wins | $71,631 |
| Graduation Rate | 90.4%wins | 83.2% |
| Retention Rate | 97.5%wins | 91.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 16:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 15,719 | 23,694wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northeastern edges out UMass Amherst 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.
Northeastern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 9.9%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1460–1550
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $92,538
UMass Amherst Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $39,293
- ✓Avg Net Price: $23,691
- ✓Total Enrollment: 23,694
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