College Comparison
Boston University 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
Boston, MA
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
37,737
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
7.7%
Average GPA
3.79
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1510–1570
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
78,769
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$62,391
Room & Board
$19,020
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Boston University is $147 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University 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.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University 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 University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, 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.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

