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College Comparison

Northwestern University vs Drexel 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

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL

School

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricNorthwesternDrexel
Acceptance Rate7.1%wins77.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1490–1560wins1230–1430
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35wins27–33
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,997$60,663wins
Avg Net Price$27,143wins$38,428
Median Earnings (10 yr)$89,363wins$84,648
Graduation Rate95.9%wins77.1%
Retention Rate97.4%wins89.6%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins9:1
Total Enrollment8,96013,509wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Drexel on 8 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.

Northwestern Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
  • Avg Net Price: $27,143

Drexel Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $60,663
  • Total Enrollment: 13,509

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