University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Northwestern University

Ann Arbor, MI — Evanston, IL

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

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

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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and Northwestern University compare?
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. 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 of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Northwestern University?
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, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Northwestern University?
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