College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
School
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | Colorado State |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 89.6% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $33,751wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $20,332wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $60,543 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 66.9% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 84.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 17:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 25,148wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Colorado State 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.
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $89,363
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.9%
Colorado State Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,751
- ✓Avg Net Price: $20,332
- ✓Total Enrollment: 25,148
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