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Harvard University vs Northwestern University

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

25
Harvard Wins
10
Tied / N/A
11
Northwestern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,601
Enrollment
9,201
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1553
SAT Average
1533
35
ACT Midpoint
35
1510-1580
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$68,322
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
$19,066
Average Net Price
$29,167
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,764
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,099
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$7,898
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,777
16%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
96%
98%
Retention Rate
98%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
83%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$20,322
26%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

50%
Female
52%
31%
White
31%
12%
Hispanic
16%
9%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
21%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$76,844
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$83,487
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$14,000
Median Debt
$15,000
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17x
88%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
169.42%
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5518.6%
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
307.0%
$174,000
Parent Median Income
$168,500

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.02
Friending Bias
0.01
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
11.3%

Research (Times HE)

#1
World Rank
#25
99.7
Teaching Score
64.5
98.7
Research Score
68.8
98.8
Citations Score
95.3

The Overviews

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit

4% accept 97% grad $101,817 earnings $19,066 net

With an acceptance rate of just 4%, Harvard University is a place where the most driven and ambitious students find their footing. It’s especially suitable for those drawn to rigorous academic programs like Social Sciences, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The environment here encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to excellence, attracting a diverse group of scholars who are ready to engage deeply with their studies.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising, with alumni earning an average of $101,817 within ten years. This level of earning power is a significant motivator for students considering their future. While the cost of education is an important factor, many graduates see a strong return on their investment, which makes the financial commitment worthwhile for those who can navigate the admissions process.

When we look at the practical aspects, the net price after aid stands at $19,066, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $14,000. This financial structure allows students to focus on their education without being overwhelmed by debt. Those who thrive at Harvard often share a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world, making the most of the resources and opportunities available to them.

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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