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Bentley University vs Northwestern University

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

14
Bentley Wins
8
Tied / N/A
24
Northwestern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
4,474
Enrollment
9,201
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

45%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1352
SAT Average
1533
30
ACT Midpoint
35
1280-1430
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,000
In-State Tuition
$68,322
$61,000
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
$37,930
Average Net Price
$29,167
$21,196
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,764
$18,587
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,099
$26,164
Net Price ($48-75K)
$7,898
$49,190
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,777
16%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
96%
93%
Retention Rate
98%
67%
Full-Time Faculty
83%
$15,847
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$20,322
16%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

40%
Female
52%
53%
White
31%
14%
Hispanic
16%
4%
Black
8%
10%
Asian
21%
0.67
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$86,679
Earnings (6yr)
$76,844
$102,857
Earnings (8yr)
$83,487
$120,959
Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$25,023
Median Debt
$15,000
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17x
92%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

294.19%
Mobility Rate
169.42%
6058.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5518.6%
485.6%
From Bottom 20%
307.0%
$119,600
Parent Median Income
$168,500

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.00
Friending Bias
0.01
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
11.3%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#25
N/A
Teaching Score
64.5
N/A
Research Score
68.8
N/A
Citations Score
95.3

The Overviews

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · Private nonprofit

45% accept 88% grad $120,959 earnings $37,930 net

At Bentley University, students who are interested in business, technology, and social sciences will find a supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration. With an acceptance rate of 45%, this private nonprofit school draws in a diverse group of around 4,474 students. The focus here is on practical skills and real-world applications, making programs in Business & Marketing, Computer Science, and Health Professions particularly popular.

When looking ahead to life after graduation, Bentley graduates see impressive financial outcomes. On average, they earn about $120,959 within ten years of completing their degrees. This figure is significant because it reflects the university's strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. While 16% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to affordability for those who need it, the overall financial picture remains favorable for graduates.

Considering the practicalities, the net price after aid stands at $37,930, which is manageable relative to the median debt of $25,023. This debt load is reasonable and allows many graduates to thrive in their early careers. Bentley is ideal for motivated individuals who are ready to engage deeply with their studies and the broader community, setting themselves up for success in a competitive job market.

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · Private nonprofit

8% accept 96% grad $89,363 earnings $29,167 net

Northwestern University has an impressive graduation rate of 96%, indicating strong student support and academic success. This high rate reflects the university’s commitment to helping students complete their degrees on time. With an acceptance rate of just 8%, gaining admission is highly competitive, attracting top talent from across the country.

The earnings potential for graduates is significant, with a 10-year median income of $89,363. This figure suggests that students who attend Northwestern can expect a strong return on their investment. However, 19% of students receive Pell Grants, which highlights that some students come from lower-income backgrounds, yet still have the opportunity to thrive here.

The net price for attending Northwestern is $29,167, and the median debt is relatively low at $15,000, making it more manageable for graduates. Students who excel here often pursue majors in engineering, social sciences, and communications. Those who thrive at Northwestern are typically motivated and high-achieving individuals, ready to engage in a challenging academic environment.

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