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College Comparison

Northeastern University vs Vanderbilt 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

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricNortheasternVanderbilt
Acceptance Rate9.9%6.3%wins
SAT Range (25th–75th)1460–15501510–1560wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–3534–35wins
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,141wins$63,946
Avg Net Price$32,116$19,040wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$92,538wins$91,565
Graduation Rate90.4%92.7%wins
Retention Rate97.5%wins96.4%
Student–Faculty Ratio16:17:1wins
Total Enrollment15,719wins7,143

Verdict

Based on the data above, Vanderbilt edges out Northeastern on 6 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

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,141
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $92,538
  • Retention Rate: 97.5%
  • Total Enrollment: 15,719

Vanderbilt Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 6.3%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1560
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Avg Net Price: $19,040

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