College Comparison
Northwestern University vs University of Rochester
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Evanston, IL
Rochester, NY
Total Enrollment
23,856
11,946
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
6,580
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
40.1%
Average GPA
4.00
3.80
SAT Range
1510–1570
1410–1540
ACT Range
33–35
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$50
Total Applicants
49,474
21,384
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$80,342
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$30,248
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$60,550
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$60,550
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,792
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
72.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$45,500
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
87.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
79.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$79,042
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Rochester is in Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $30,248 at University of Rochester. Northwestern University is $3,105 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Rochester, the typical SAT range is 1410-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while University of Rochester has a graduation rate of 87%. 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 University of Rochester has a ratio of 9:1. 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 University of Rochester, 72% of students receive aid with an average grant of $45,500.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $79,042 for University of Rochester 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. University of Rochester is located in Rochester, NY in a city: midsize setting.

