College Comparison
Boston University vs Northeastern University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Boston, MA
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
37,737
32,553
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
17,432
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
5.2%
Average GPA
3.79
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1440–1540
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
78,769
98,425
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$78,680
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$32,116
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$59,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$59,100
Room & Board
$19,020
$19,580
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
66.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$50,421
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
35.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$92,538
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Northeastern is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $32,116 at Northeastern University. Boston University is $5,120 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northeastern University, the typical SAT range is 1440-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%. Northeastern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Northeastern University has a ratio of 16:1. Boston University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At Northeastern University, 66% of students receive aid with an average grant of $50,421.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $92,538 for Northeastern University graduates. Graduates from Northeastern University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.

