Northwestern University vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Evanston, IL — Ann Arbor, MI

Metric
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
Location Evanston, IL Ann Arbor, MI
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 9,201 34,177
Acceptance Rate 7.7% 15.6%
SAT Average 1,533 1,465
In-State Tuition $68,322 $17,736
Out-of-State Tuition $68,322 $60,946
Avg Net Price $29,167 $13,138
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 93.2%
Retention Rate 98.1% 97.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $76,844 $73,762
Median Earnings (10 yr) $89,363 $83,648
Loan Repayment Rate 204100.0% 627800.0%

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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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northwestern University and University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 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. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) has an acceptance rate of 15.6%, in-state tuition of $17,736, and median 10-year earnings of $83,648.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $83,648. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is the more affordable option at $13,138 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 93.2%.

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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