Vanderbilt University vs Northwestern University
Nashville, TN — Evanston, IL
| Metric | Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Nashville, TN | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,208 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 5.9% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,549 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $67,498 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $67,498 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,846 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 93.1% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 96.3% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $73,909 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $91,565 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 84500.0% | 204100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Vanderbilt University and Northwestern University compare?▼
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. 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, Vanderbilt University or Northwestern 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, Vanderbilt University or Northwestern 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