College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Wellesley 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
Wellesley College
Wellesley, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | Wellesley |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 13.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | 1440–1550 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $64,320wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $25,008wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $84,803 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 91.2% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 96.3% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 7:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960wins | 2,318 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Wellesley on 7 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%
Wellesley Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $64,320
- ✓Avg Net Price: $25,008
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