College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Rice University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Evanston, IL
Houston, TX
Total Enrollment
23,856
8,961
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
4,789
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
8.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1510–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
49,474
32,473
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$72,200
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$12,640
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$54,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$54,100
Room & Board
$21,126
$18,100
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$56,199
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$89,718
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Rice is in Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $12,640 at Rice University. Rice University is $14,503 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Rice University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Rice University has a graduation rate of 93%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Rice University has a ratio of 6:1. Rice University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $64,429. At Rice University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,199.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $89,718 for Rice University graduates. Graduates from Rice University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting. Rice University is located in Houston, TX in a city: large setting.

