Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Northwestern University
Blacksburg, VA — Evanston, IL
| Metric | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Blacksburg, VA | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 30,923 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 54.8% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,364 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,948 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $37,764 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,953 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 86.3% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 93.1% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $67,377 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $81,698 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 661700.0% | 204100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Northwestern University compare?▼
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698. 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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Northwestern University?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $81,698. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Northwestern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is the more affordable option at $24,953 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 86.3%.
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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