College Research

CollegesRankingsMajors

College Comparison

Northeastern University vs Stanford University

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

Northeastern University
#64
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Private
Stanford University
#3
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Boston, MA

Stanford, CA

Total Enrollment

32,553

18,625

Undergrad Enrollment

17,432

7,904

Student-Faculty Ratio

16:1

6:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

5.2%

3.6%

Average GPA

4.00

3.96

SAT Range

1440–1540

1510–1580

ACT Range

33–35

34–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$75

$90

Total Applicants

98,425

57,326


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$78,680

$79,018

Avg Net Price

$32,116

$26,000

Tuition (In-State)

$59,100

$57,693

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$59,100

$57,693

Room & Board

$19,580

$21,325

% Receiving Aid

66.0%

61.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$50,421

$62,755


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

90.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

35.0%

78.0%

Retention Rate

97.0%

98.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$92,538

$124,080

More Comparisons
Explore by Location

Northeastern is in Boston, MA

Stanford is in Stanford, CA

Want to compare different schools?
Frequently Asked Questions

Northeastern University has an acceptance rate of 5%, while Stanford University has an acceptance rate of 4%. This means Stanford University is more selective than Northeastern University.

The average net price at Northeastern University is $32,116 per year, compared to $26,000 at Stanford University. Stanford University is $6,116 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Northeastern University typically score between 1440-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Stanford University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%, while Stanford University has a graduation rate of 96%. Stanford University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Northeastern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, while Stanford University has a ratio of 6:1. Stanford 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 Stanford University, 61% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,755.

The median earnings for Northeastern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $92,538, compared to $124,080 for Stanford University graduates. Graduates from Stanford 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. Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting.