College Comparison
Yale University 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
Yale University
New Haven, CT
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Yale | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.5%wins | 7.1% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580wins | 1490–1560 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $64,700wins | $65,997 |
| Avg Net Price | $27,818 | $27,143wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $100,533wins | $89,363 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.3%wins | 95.9% |
| Retention Rate | 99.0%wins | 97.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 6,811 | 8,960wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Yale edges out Northwestern on 6 of 8 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.
Yale Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1580
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $64,700
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $100,533
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $27,143
- ✓Total Enrollment: 8,960
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.