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College Comparison

Northwestern University vs Harvey Mudd College: 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

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricNorthwesternHarvey Mudd
Acceptance Rate7.1%wins13.1%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1490–1560wins1480–1560
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–3534–36wins
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,997wins$66,255
Avg Net Price$27,143wins$32,492
Median Earnings (10 yr)$89,363$138,687wins
Graduation Rate95.9%wins93.8%
Retention Rate97.4%wins96.6%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins8:1
Total Enrollment8,960wins915

Verdict

Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Harvey Mudd 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
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $65,997
  • Avg Net Price: $27,143

Harvey Mudd Strengths

  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–36
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $138,687

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