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Northeastern University vs Wellesley College

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

19
Northeastern Wins
10
Tied / N/A
17
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
New England
17,326
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1497
SAT Average
1520
34
ACT Midpoint
33
1440-1540
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$66,162
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$66,162
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$30,915
Average Net Price
$25,496
$2,264
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$2,436
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$5,301
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$47,696
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
12%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
27%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

90%
Graduation Rate
91%
97%
Retention Rate
97%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$16,218
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
19%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

54%
Female
N/A
40%
White
30%
10%
Hispanic
14%
5%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
26%
0.76
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$78,413
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$82,813
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$92,538
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$24,250
Median Debt
$10,000
0.26x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
85%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

243.76%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
4736.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
514.6%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$108,300
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.79
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.4%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

Research (Times HE)

#201-225
World Rank
N/A
30.4
Teaching Score
N/A
18.9
Research Score
N/A
70
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 90% grad $92,538 earnings $30,915 net

Northeastern University in Boston is an excellent fit for students who are driven and ready to engage in a highly competitive academic environment. With an acceptance rate of just 5%, it attracts those who excel in their studies and seek a dynamic campus experience. Students here often dive into popular programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. This variety allows for a rich educational experience and a chance to connect with peers across different fields.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $92,538 within ten years of completing their degree. This figure highlights the potential for upward mobility, especially considering the strong graduation rate of 90%. While affordability can be a concern for many students, the financial landscape here is manageable, with a net price of $30,915 after aid. This balance between cost and earning potential is a significant advantage for graduates.

When it comes to practical considerations, the typical debt load for students at Northeastern is around $24,250. This is relatively low compared to their earning potential, making it easier for graduates to pay off loans while enjoying their careers. The environment here tends to suit those who are ambitious and ready to take advantage of the university's extensive resources and networking opportunities. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and values real-world experience alongside academic rigor, Northeastern could be a great choice for you.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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