College Comparison
Bowdoin 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
Brunswick, ME
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
1,881
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
7.7%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1470–1550
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$75
Total Applicants
13,265
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$62,391
Room & Board
$18,488
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Bowdoin College is $6,357 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 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.
Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bowdoin 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 Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, 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.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

