College Comparison
Bates College vs Northwestern University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Lewiston, ME
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
1,760
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
1,760
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.3%
7.7%
Average GPA
3.92
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1510–1570
ACT Range
31–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$75
Total Applicants
10,027
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,846
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$30,703
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$61,066
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,066
$62,391
Room & Board
$18,780
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,809
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$69,498
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Bates is in Lewiston, ME
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bates College is $30,703 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $3,560 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bates College typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northwestern University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Bates College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bates College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. Northwestern University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bates College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,809. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Bates College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $69,498, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from Northwestern University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Bates College is located in Lewiston, ME in a city: small setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

