Northwestern University vs Harvard University
Evanston, IL — Cambridge, MA
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Harvard University Cambridge, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 7,601 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $61,676 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $61,676 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $19,066 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 97.5% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 98.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $99,572 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $101,817 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 42000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Harvard University compare?▼
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. Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $61,676, and median 10-year earnings of $101,817.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or Harvard University?▼
Harvard University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $101,817 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or Harvard University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Harvard University is the more affordable option at $19,066 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Harvard University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.5% 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