College Comparison
Massachusetts Institute of Technology 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
Cambridge, MA
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
11,886
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
4,535
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.5%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1520–1580
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–36
33–35
Test Policy
Required
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
28,232
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,870
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$20,000
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$57,590
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,590
$62,391
Room & Board
$20,280
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,734
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
99.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$143,372
$89,363
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Explore by Location
MIT is in Cambridge, MA
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at MIT is $20,000 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. MIT is $7,143 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at MIT typically score between 1520-1580 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.
MIT has a graduation rate of 97%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. MIT has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
MIT has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. MIT offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At MIT, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,734. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for MIT graduates 10 years after enrollment is $143,372, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from MIT tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
MIT is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

