College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Yale 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
New Haven, CT
Total Enrollment
23,856
15,564
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
6,814
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
3.9%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1510–1570
1470–1570
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$80
Total Applicants
49,474
57,517
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$82,150
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$27,818
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$62,250
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$62,250
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,900
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$65,892
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
98.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
89.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$100,533
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Yale is in New Haven, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $27,818 at Yale University. Northwestern University is $675 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Yale University, the typical SAT range is 1470-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Yale University has a graduation rate of 98%. Yale University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Yale University has a ratio of 5:1. Yale 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 Yale University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,892.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $100,533 for Yale University graduates. Graduates from Yale 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. Yale University is located in New Haven, CT in a city: midsize setting.

