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Northwestern University vs Washington and Lee University

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

Northwestern University
#20
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Private
Washington and Lee University
#41
Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Evanston, IL

Lexington, VA

Total Enrollment

23,856

2,241

Undergrad Enrollment

9,399

1,886

Student-Faculty Ratio

6:1

7:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

7.7%

14.0%

Average GPA

4.00

3.91

SAT Range

1510–1570

1430–1540

ACT Range

33–35

33–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$75

$60

Total Applicants

49,474

8,213


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$83,517

$79,275

Avg Net Price

$27,143

$23,911

Tuition (In-State)

$62,391

$60,590

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$62,391

$60,590

Room & Board

$21,126

$18,685

% Receiving Aid

53.0%

64.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$64,429

$63,945


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

94.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

87.0%

91.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

97.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$89,363

$94,810

More Comparisons
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Northwestern is in Evanston, IL

Washington and Lee is in Lexington, VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern University has an acceptance rate of 8%, while Washington and Lee University has an acceptance rate of 14%. This means Northwestern University is more selective than Washington and Lee University.

The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $23,911 at Washington and Lee University. Washington and Lee University is $3,232 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Washington and Lee University, the typical SAT range is 1430-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%. 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 Washington and Lee University has a ratio of 7:1. 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 Washington and Lee University, 64% of students receive aid with an average grant of $63,945.

The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $94,810 for Washington and Lee University graduates. Graduates from Washington and Lee 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. Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA in a town: distant setting.