College Comparison
Northwestern University vs University of Pittsburgh: 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
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | Pitt |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 49.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | 1270–1450 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $39,890wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143wins | $30,074 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $66,125 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 84.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 92.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 13:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 20,189wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Pitt 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
Pitt Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $39,890
- ✓Total Enrollment: 20,189
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