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College Comparison

Colgate University vs Northwestern University

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Colgate University
#53
Colgate University
Hamilton, NY
Private
Northwestern University
#20
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Hamilton, NY

Evanston, IL

Total Enrollment

3,211

23,856

Undergrad Enrollment

3,193

9,399

Student-Faculty Ratio

9:1

6:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

13.9%

7.7%

Average GPA

3.79

4.00

SAT Range

1430–1540

1510–1570

ACT Range

33–34

33–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$60

$75

Total Applicants

20,682

49,474


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$81,514

$83,517

Avg Net Price

$29,107

$27,143

Tuition (In-State)

$63,904

$62,391

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$63,904

$62,391

Room & Board

$17,610

$21,126

% Receiving Aid

43.0%

53.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$58,334

$64,429


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

91.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

88.0%

87.0%

Retention Rate

93.0%

98.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$85,139

$89,363

More Comparisons
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Colgate is in Hamilton, NY

Northwestern is in Evanston, IL

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Frequently Asked Questions

Colgate University has an acceptance rate of 14%, while Northwestern University has an acceptance rate of 8%. This means Northwestern University is more selective than Colgate University.

The average net price at Colgate University is $29,107 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $1,964 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Colgate University typically score between 1430-1540 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.

Colgate University has a graduation rate of 91%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Colgate University 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 Colgate University, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,334. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.

The median earnings for Colgate University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $85,139, 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.

Colgate University is located in Hamilton, NY in a rural: distant setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.