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Brown University vs Northwestern University

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

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

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,226
Enrollment
9,201
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1546
SAT Average
1533
34
ACT Midpoint
35
1510-1580
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$68,322
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
$25,184
Average Net Price
$29,167
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,764
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,099
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$7,898
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,777
14%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
96%
99%
Retention Rate
98%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
83%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$20,322
17%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

54%
Female
52%
33%
White
31%
12%
Hispanic
16%
8%
Black
8%
23%
Asian
21%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$76,844
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$83,487
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$11,428
Median Debt
$15,000
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17x
79%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
169.42%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5518.6%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
307.0%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$168,500

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.00
Friending Bias
0.01
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
11.3%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
#25
59.7
Teaching Score
64.5
57
Research Score
68.8
77.7
Citations Score
95.3

The Overviews

Brown University

Providence, RI · Private nonprofit

5% accept 96% grad $93,487 earnings $25,184 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Brown University in Providence, RI, is a selective option that attracts students driven to excel academically and personally. It’s a place for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to dive into programs like Social Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, Mathematics, and Engineering. The high graduation rate of 96% speaks to the strong support system in place, making it a solid choice for ambitious students.

After graduation, Brown alumni see impressive earning potential, with a median income of $93,487 ten years post-graduation. This financial trajectory suggests that graduates are not just securing jobs, but often moving into roles that reward their hard work. While this school may come with a price tag, the outcomes reflect a community that values education and shapes successful careers.

When it comes to the finances, the net price after aid stands at $25,184, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $11,428. This is encouraging, especially for students who may be concerned about student loans. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated and ready to engage deeply with their studies, taking full advantage of the opportunities that come their way.

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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