Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs Northwestern University

Cambridge, MA — Evanston, IL

Metric
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Cambridge, MA Evanston, IL
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,535 9,201
Acceptance Rate 4.5% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,560 1,533
In-State Tuition $62,396 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $62,396 $68,322
Avg Net Price $20,111 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $14,768 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.2% 95.5%
Retention Rate 99.1% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $131,633 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $143,372 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 58700.0% 204100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Northwestern University compare?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $62,396, and median 10-year earnings of $143,372. 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, Massachusetts Institute of Technology or Northwestern University?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Massachusetts Institute of Technology or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the more affordable option at $20,111 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.2% vs 95.5%.

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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