College Comparison
University of Michigan vs Northwestern 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
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | University of Michigan | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 17.9% | 7.1%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1350–1530 | 1490–1560wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 31–34 | 33–35wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $58,072wins | $65,997 |
| Avg Net Price | $14,832wins | $27,143 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $83,648 | $89,363wins |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% | 95.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.6%wins | 97.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 11:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 33,488wins | 8,960 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out University of Michigan on 6 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.
University of Michigan Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
- ✓Avg Net Price: $14,832
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.6%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,488
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $89,363
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