College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
23,856
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1510–1570
1340–1490
ACT Range
33–35
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
49,474
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$55,012
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Northwestern University is $14,635 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 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.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. 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 Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Northwestern 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University graduates. Graduates from Northwestern 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

