College Comparison
Colgate 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
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
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Explore by Location
Colgate is in Hamilton, NY
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
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.

