Northwestern University vs Vanderbilt University
Evanston, IL — Nashville, TN
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Nashville, TN |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 7,208 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 5.9% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | 1,549 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $67,498 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $67,498 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $15,846 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 93.1% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 96.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $73,909 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $91,565 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 84500.0% |
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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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Vanderbilt 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. Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 5.9%, in-state tuition of $67,498, and median 10-year earnings of $91,565.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or Vanderbilt University?▼
Vanderbilt University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $91,565 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or Vanderbilt University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Vanderbilt University is the more affordable option at $15,846 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 93.1%.
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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