College Comparison
Northwestern University vs University of Maryland: 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 Maryland
College Park, MD
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | University of Maryland |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 44.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | 1370–1520 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 32–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $40,306wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $15,590wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $82,860 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 88.6% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 95.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 30,246wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out University of Maryland 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
University of Maryland Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $40,306
- ✓Avg Net Price: $15,590
- ✓Total Enrollment: 30,246
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