American University vs Northwestern University
Washington, DC — Evanston, IL
| Metric | American University Washington, DC | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,266 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.0% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,381 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $58,771 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $58,771 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $41,943 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.0% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 88.2% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,328 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 219000.0% | 204100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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American University
Washington, DC
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do American University and Northwestern University compare?▼
American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American University or Northwestern University?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $77,370. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American University or Northwestern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northwestern University is the more affordable option at $29,167 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 77.0%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025