College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Wesleyan 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
Middletown, CT
Total Enrollment
23,856
4,011
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
3,805
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
16.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.80
SAT Range
1510–1570
1415–1540
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$65
Total Applicants
49,474
14,389
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$83,594
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$27,888
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$63,722
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$63,722
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,872
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
42.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$65,995
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
91.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$73,897
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Wesleyan is in Middletown, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $27,888 at Wesleyan University. Northwestern University is $745 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Wesleyan University, the typical SAT range is 1415-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Wesleyan University has a graduation rate of 91%. 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 Wesleyan University has a ratio of 8:1. 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 Wesleyan University, 42% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,995.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $73,897 for Wesleyan 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. Wesleyan University is located in Middletown, CT in a city: small setting.

