University at Buffalo vs Northwestern University

Buffalo, NY — Evanston, IL

Metric
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Buffalo, NY Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 20,112 9,201
Acceptance Rate 74.2% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,295 1,533
In-State Tuition $10,936 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $31,536 $68,322
Avg Net Price $20,995 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $19,000 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 74.3% 95.5%
Retention Rate 85.2% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,742 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $70,814 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 713500.0% 204100.0%

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

Full Profile
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University at Buffalo and Northwestern University compare?
University at Buffalo (Buffalo, NY) has an acceptance rate of 74.2%, in-state tuition of $10,936, and median 10-year earnings of $70,814. 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, University at Buffalo or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $70,814. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University at Buffalo or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University at Buffalo is the more affordable option at $20,995 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 74.3%.

More Comparisons

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