College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Stony Brook 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
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | Stony Brook |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 49.0% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | 1320–1490 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 28–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $30,350wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $18,430wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $74,502 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 77.8% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 88.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 17,420wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Stony Brook on 7 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $89,363
Stony Brook Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $30,350
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,430
- ✓Total Enrollment: 17,420
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