College Comparison
Northwestern University vs UC Santa Barbara: 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
UC Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | UC Santa Barbara |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 27.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $45,742wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $13,825wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $74,915 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 85.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 91.9% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 17:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 23,205wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out UC Santa Barbara 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%
UC Santa Barbara Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,742
- ✓Avg Net Price: $13,825
- ✓Total Enrollment: 23,205
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