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George Washington University vs Northwestern University

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

12
George Wins
6
Tied / N/A
28
Northwestern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Great Lakes
11,182
Enrollment
9,201
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

47%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1433
SAT Average
1533
32
ACT Midpoint
35
1350-1500
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,710
In-State Tuition
$68,322
$67,710
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
$36,586
Average Net Price
$29,167
$17,440
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,764
$17,292
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,099
$22,080
Net Price ($48-75K)
$7,898
$55,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,777
16%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

85%
Graduation Rate
96%
92%
Retention Rate
98%
49%
Full-Time Faculty
83%
$16,784
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$20,322
16%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

63%
Female
52%
48%
White
31%
14%
Hispanic
16%
8%
Black
8%
16%
Asian
21%
0.71
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$71,607
Earnings (6yr)
$76,844
$78,974
Earnings (8yr)
$83,487
$90,873
Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$20,449
Median Debt
$15,000
0.23x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17x
82%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

215.66%
Mobility Rate
169.42%
4225.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5518.6%
510.4%
From Bottom 20%
307.0%
$137,300
Parent Median Income
$168,500

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.02
Friending Bias
0.01
12.5%
Volunteering Rate
11.3%

Research (Times HE)

#95
World Rank
#25
60.6
Teaching Score
64.5
43.1
Research Score
68.8
70.2
Citations Score
95.3

The Overviews

George Washington University

Washington, DC · Private nonprofit

47% accept 85% grad $90,873 earnings $36,586 net

George Washington University reports a striking graduation rate of 85%. This figure reflects the university's commitment to student success and its supportive academic environment. With a significant portion of students completing their degrees, GWU stands out for those seeking reliable pathways to graduation.

The earnings potential for graduates is compelling. Alumni earn an average of $90,873 within ten years of graduation. This income level positions graduates well within the job market, contributing to long-term financial stability. Although specific mobility data is not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are likely to improve their economic circumstances through their education at GWU.

The net price for attending George Washington University is $36,586, with a median debt of $20,449. This balance makes it an appealing choice for students who can manage costs while aiming for solid post-graduate earnings. GWU attracts those interested in fields like social sciences, health professions, and business, where graduates find ample opportunities to thrive in Washington, D.C.'s dynamic 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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