Northwestern University vs Stanford University
Evanston, IL — Stanford, CA
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Stanford University Stanford, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Stanford, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 7,554 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 3.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $65,910 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $65,910 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $13,807 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $12,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 92.4% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 98.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $102,887 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $124,080 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 62500.0% |
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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Stanford University
Stanford, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Stanford 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. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or Stanford University?▼
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or Stanford University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Stanford University is the more affordable option at $13,807 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 92.4%.
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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