Northeastern University
Northeastern University has an acceptance rate of 5.2%, annual tuition of $66,162, average net price of $30,915, and a national rank of #410 (Grade B+), with a 90.5% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 17,326 undergraduates, and median earnings of $101,903 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Northeastern University is a private nonprofit university in Boston, MA. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Computer Engineering.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, and 96.9% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 54.9%, roughly 5.0 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for ambitious students who thrive in an elite, research-powered setting.
Who is Northeastern University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Northeastern University graduates 90.5% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 91.1% and keeps 96.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Northeastern University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $66,162 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $19,580 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,800 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $84,641 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 12.3% of Northeastern University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Low-income families pay less than $2,264 annually, while high-income families pay $47,696. Use Northeastern University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $16,241/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $47,696/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $101,903
- 10-Year Median Earnings $92,538
- Average Years to Graduate 6.0 years
- Average Student Debt $24,250
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 78.7%
- Employment Rate 35.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Northeastern University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Northeastern University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Northeastern University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Northeastern University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Northeastern University graduates earn $101,903 median four years after graduation, +69% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 710-760
- SAT Math 730-780
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 33-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 17,326
- Full-Time Students 100.0%
- Part-Time Students 0.0%
- Retention Rate 96.9%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 90.5%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 91.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 16:1
How to Get Into Northeastern University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Northeastern University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 5.2%, Northeastern University is extremely selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 5.2% acceptance rate, Northeastern University is extremely selective. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their class. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1440 and 1540 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Northeastern University undergraduates. Business/Commerce, General, Computer and Information Sciences, General, and Mechanical Engineering draw the most students.
- Business/Commerce, General 22.6%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 7.6%
- Mechanical Engineering 6.0%
- Communication and Media Studies 4.2%
- Economics 3.8%
- International Business 3.4%
See more majors
- Chemical Engineering 3.1%
- Political Science and Government 3.1%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer and Information Sciences, General $149,127
- 2. Computer Engineering $143,143
- 3. International Business $111,223
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business/Commerce, General $110,708
- 5. Industrial Engineering $110,414
- 6. Mechanical Engineering $104,723
- 7. Chemical Engineering $104,660
- 8. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $103,304
- 9. Mathematics $98,407
- 10. Economics $98,280
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Master's Degree) $157,580
- 2. Biotechnology (Master's Degree) $156,570
- 3. Taxation (Master's Degree) $149,550
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (First Professional Degree) $147,886
- 5. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree) $147,061
- 6. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $145,441
- 7. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $142,854
- 8. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $139,677
- 9. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $138,446
- 10. Engineering, General (Master's Degree) $133,840
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $149,127—52% more than Economics ($98,280). Graduate: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration programs lead with $157,580 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Northeastern University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degree, 939 graduates)
- Computer Engineering (Master's Degree, 577 graduates)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 314 graduates)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree, 306 graduates)
- Engineering, General (Master's Degree, 265 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (65 programs)▼
- Business/Commerce, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Communication and Media Studies
- Economics
- International Business
- Political Science and Government
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Chemical Engineering
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Computer Engineering
- Biology, General
- Mathematics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Industrial Engineering
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Engineering, Other
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Design and Applied Arts
- Chemistry
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Music
- Architecture
- Sociology
- Physics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Journalism
- History
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Human Services, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Architectural History and Criticism
- Philosophy
- American Sign Language
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Information Science/Studies
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Area Studies
- Social Sciences, Other
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- Landscape Architecture
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Graphic Communications
- Anthropology
- Public Health
- Psychology, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
Online Master's Degrees (61 programs)▼
- Computer Engineering
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Engineering, General
- Business/Commerce, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Engineering, Other
- Mechanical Engineering
- Accounting and Related Services
- Industrial Engineering
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Civil Engineering
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Economics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Graphic Communications
- Operations Research
- Applied Mathematics
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Design and Applied Arts
- English Language and Literature, General
- Journalism
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Public Administration
- Music
- Political Science and Government
- Taxation
- Sociology
- Physics
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- History
- Chemistry
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
- International Business
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Environmental Design
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Biology, General
- Public Health
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Human Computer Interaction
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Systems Science and Theory
- Public Policy Analysis
- Mathematics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Information Science/Studies
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Doctoral Degrees (31 programs)▼
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Chemical Engineering
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Industrial Engineering
- Sociology
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Civil Engineering
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- History
- Economics
- Biology, General
- Public Health
- Mathematics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Engineering, Other
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Systems Science and Theory
- Political Science and Government
- Engineering, General
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Information Science/Studies
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)▼
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Law
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 17,326
- Full-Time Students 100.0%
- Part-Time Students 0.0%
- Male Students 43.4%
- Female Students 56.6%
- Caucasian 39.9%
- Asian 22.3%
- Hispanic 10.4%
- Black 5.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 12.3%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Northeastern University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Northeastern University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Northeastern University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Northeastern University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Northeastern University has a diverse student body, with 39.9% identifying as White. About 12.3% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Northeastern University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Northeastern University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Northeastern University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 54.9% ROI. Ranked #410 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $30,915 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $101,903 median earnings. With 90.5% graduating within 150% of normal time and 96.9% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Northeastern University's Positioning
With a B+ grade and #410 ranking, Northeastern University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $30,915 annually, Northeastern University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 96.9% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $21,640 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 54.9% ROI and $101,903 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $20,915+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Northeastern University ranks #410 of 1947 institutions, with 1210 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 90.5% graduation rate sits 28.0 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 96.9% first-year retention is 20.1 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 54.9% return on investment is 5.0 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $101,903 run about 69% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $30,915 is roughly $10,836 higher than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 16:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 96.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 35.2% employment rate within three years sits 33.0 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $30,915 is about $10,836 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 12.3% trails the national share by 22.1 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Northeastern University, a private nonprofit university in Boston, MA, secures a B+ grade in our latest review. It is currently ranked #410 nationally Category results include Completion (A), Support (B+), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (C-).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
96.9% of learners come back after year one while 90.5% graduate within 150% of normal time (91.1% within eight years). Return on investment currently measures 54.9% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $30,915 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $84,641.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $53,726 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $24,250 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 12.3% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $101,903 at the median. Compared with the national median, that's 69% higher.
The three-year employment rate is close to 35.2%.
The ROI comes in near 54.9%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
5.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Northeastern University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Northeastern University's acceptance rate?
Northeastern University's acceptance rate is 5.2%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Northeastern University cost?
At Northeastern University, listed tuition and fees are $66,162 per year, and the average net price after aid is $30,915. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Northeastern University's ranking?
Northeastern University ranks #410 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Northeastern University's graduation rate?
At Northeastern University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 90.5% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 91.1%, and first-year retention is 96.9%.
What are Northeastern University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Northeastern University report median earnings of $101,903 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Northeastern University's student population?
Northeastern University enrolls about 17,326 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Boston, MA 02115-5005
- Website www.northeastern.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$1.55B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate3.6%