College Comparison
Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
2,412
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
7.7%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1460–1550
1510–1570
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
19,187
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$62,391
Room & Board
$17,890
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Colby College is $3,204 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 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.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby 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 Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, 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.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

