College Comparison
Boston 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
Chestnut Hill, MA
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
15,432
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1440–1540
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
35,037
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$62,391
Room & Board
$18,916
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $12,723 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 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.
Boston 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.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, 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 Boston College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,971. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from Boston College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, MA in a city: small setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

