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College Comparison

Northeastern University vs Southern Methodist University

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

Northeastern University
#64
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Private
Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Boston, MA

Dallas, TX

Total Enrollment

32,553

12,116

Undergrad Enrollment

17,432

7,285

Student-Faculty Ratio

16:1

11:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

5.2%

63.4%

Average GPA

4.00

3.66

SAT Range

1440–1540

1340–1490

ACT Range

33–35

30–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$75

$60

Total Applicants

98,425

15,245


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$78,680

$74,076

Avg Net Price

$32,116

$41,778

Tuition (In-State)

$59,100

$55,012

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$59,100

$55,012

Room & Board

$19,580

$19,064

% Receiving Aid

66.0%

67.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$50,421

$37,520


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

90.0%

82.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

35.0%

75.0%

Retention Rate

97.0%

91.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$92,538

$78,354

More Comparisons
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Northeastern is in Boston, MA

Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northeastern University has an acceptance rate of 5%, while Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%. This means Northeastern University is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

The average net price at Northeastern University is $32,116 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Northeastern University is $9,662 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Northeastern University typically score between 1440-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Northeastern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Northeastern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Southern Methodist University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Northeastern University, 66% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $50,421. At Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.

The median earnings for Northeastern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $92,538, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Northeastern University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.

Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.