Northwestern University
Northwestern University has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, average net price of $29,167, and a national rank of #27 (Grade A+), with a 95.1% six-year graduation rate, and median earnings of $76,844 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Northwestern University is a private nonprofit university in Evanston, IL. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Computer Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 62.0%, roughly 12.1 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for ambitious students who thrive in an elite, research-powered setting and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Northwestern University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Northwestern University graduates 95.1% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a C compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Northwestern 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 | Not reported |
| Books and Supplies | Not reported |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $91,250 |
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: Only 0.0% of Northwestern University students receive Pell Grants — far below the national average, underscoring equity challenges.
ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $76,844
- 10-Year Median Earnings $76,844
- Average Years to Graduate 4.2 years
- Average Student Debt $14,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 87.0%
- Employment Rate 86.7%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Northwestern 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.
Northwestern University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Northwestern University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Northwestern University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Northwestern University graduates earn $76,844 median six years after enrollment, +76% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 740-770
- SAT Math 770-800
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 33-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate Not reported
- Graduation Rate 95.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 6:1
How to Get Into Northwestern University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Northwestern 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 7.7%, Northwestern 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 7.7% acceptance rate, Northwestern 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 1510 and 1570 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Northwestern University undergraduates. Economics, Journalism, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Economics 12.2%
- Journalism 5.5%
- Psychology, General 5.0%
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences 4.9%
- Political Science and Government 4.4%
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication 3.7%
See more majors
- Communication and Media Studies 3.6%
- Music 3.5%
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 Science $156,137
- 2. Computer Engineering $138,897
- 3. Industrial Engineering $137,306
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $129,919
- 5. Economics $125,639
- 6. Chemical Engineering $120,160
- 7. Mathematics $119,511
- 8. Mechanical Engineering $104,154
- 9. Information Science/Studies $102,998
- 10. Applied Mathematics $94,684
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business/Commerce, General (First Professional Degree) $318,445
- 2. Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies (Master's Degree) $260,814
- 3. Law (First Professional Degree) $256,851
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $235,876
- 5. Engineering, Other (Master's Degree) $232,652
- 6. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $227,307
- 7. Engineering-Related Fields (Master's Degree) $219,145
- 8. Public Health (Master's Degree) $183,592
- 9. Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (First Professional Degree) $177,387
- 10. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree) $162,247
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $156,137—65% more than Applied Mathematics ($94,684). Graduate: Business/Commerce, General programs lead with $318,445 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Northwestern 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 (Master's Degree, 1,048 graduates)
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree, 569 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 338 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree, 325 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 278 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 (83 programs)▼
- Economics
- Journalism
- Psychology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Political Science and Government
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Communication and Media Studies
- Music
- Computer Science
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Biology, General
- Industrial Engineering
- Community Organization and Advocacy
- Mechanical Engineering
- Public Policy Analysis
- Mathematics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Statistics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Information Science/Studies
- History
- Chemical Engineering
- Public Health
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Applied Mathematics
- Psychology, Other
- Sociology
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Anthropology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Computer Engineering
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
- Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Materials Engineering
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Civil Engineering
- Area Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Physics
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Science, Technology and Society
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering, General
- Dance
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Social Sciences, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Materials Sciences
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Geography and Cartography
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Sustainability Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Social Sciences, Other
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Engineering, Other
- Engineering Science
- Education, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Business/Commerce, General
- Architecture and Related Services, Other
Online Master's Degrees (95 programs)▼
- Business/Commerce, General
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Marketing
- Journalism
- Engineering, Other
- Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other
- Computer Science
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Music
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Civil Engineering
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Public Health
- Economics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Materials Engineering
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Industrial Engineering
- Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians
- Applied Mathematics
- Political Science and Government
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Psychology, General
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Statistics
- Physics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Sociology
- Chemical Engineering
- Anthropology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Chemistry
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- History
- Education, Other
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Design and Applied Arts
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Systems Science and Theory
- Philosophy
- Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Engineering Physics
- Engineering Mechanics
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Accounting and Related Services
- Special Education and Teaching
- Social Sciences, Other
- Religious/Sacred Music
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Real Estate
- Public Policy Analysis
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Management Information Systems and Services
- International Business
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis
- Cognitive Science
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Biology, General
- Area Studies
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Education, General
Online Doctoral Degrees (62 programs)▼
- Chemistry
- Materials Engineering
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Biology, General
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Economics
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Psychology, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Music
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Sociology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- History
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Applied Mathematics
- Statistics
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Systems Science and Theory
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Marketing
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Education, Other
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Engineering Physics
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Engineering Mechanics
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Special Education and Teaching
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religious/Sacred Music
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Behavioral Sciences
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (26 programs)▼
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- International/Global Studies
- Systems Science and Theory
- Cognitive Science
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Behavioral Sciences
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biotechnology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Music
- English Language and Literature, General
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Area Studies
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (23 programs)▼
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Sustainability Studies
- Social Sciences, Other
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Engineering, Other
- Economics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Communication and Media Studies
- Business/Commerce, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Architecture and Related Services, Other
- Accounting and Related Services
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Law
- Medicine
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 0
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 0.0%
- Female Students 0.0%
- Caucasian 30.6%
- Asian 21.2%
- Hispanic 15.8%
- Black 8.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients 0.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Northwestern University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Northwestern University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Northwestern 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 Northwestern University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Northwestern University has a diverse student body, with 30.6% identifying as White. About 18.6% 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 Northwestern 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 Northwestern University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Ranking #27 nationally, Northwestern University combines competitive admissions with 62.0% ROI, positioning itself among America's stronger universities. The institution balances academic rigor with $76,844 in median post-graduation earnings.
Students complete degrees at 95.1% six-year rates, with 98.1% retention reflecting solid satisfaction. The $29,167 annual net price falls in the moderate range, though 1731 institutions deliver comparable outcomes at lower costs.
Competitive Selective University: Northwestern University's Market Position
A+ grade | #27 of 6119 | 98.5/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)
Competitive Positioning: Northwestern University occupies the competitive selective tier—not elite enough for automatic career advantages, but strong enough to provide quality education and reasonable outcomes. The 62.0% ROI reflects this middle ground: better than most, but not top-tier.
Value for Money: $29,167 annually produces $76,844 median earnings—a reasonable but not exceptional return. Students choosing Northwestern University should evaluate whether the institution's specific programs, location, or campus culture justify costs versus higher-ROI alternatives.
Who Succeeds Here: Self-directed students who maximize campus resources (research, internships, networking) achieve outcomes rivaling higher-ranked schools. Students seeking specific programs or geographic locations find strong value. Those needing extensive hand-holding may struggle in larger university environments.
Final Assessment: Northwestern University's #27 ranking and A+ grade reflect solid performance across metrics. With 1731 schools offering better ROI, value-focused students should compare carefully. However, for students who fit the institution's culture and programs, outcomes justify investment.
Key Takeaways
- 95.1% six-year graduation rate sits 32.6 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 98.1% first-year retention is 21.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 62.0% return on investment is 12.1 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $76,844 run about 76% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $29,167 is roughly $11,740 higher than the national median of $17,426.
Helpfulness for Students
- 6:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 98.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 86.7% employment rate within three years sits 18.5 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $29,167 is about $11,740 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Northwestern University is a private nonprofit university based in Evanston, IL and earns a A+ overall grade. It holds a #27 national ranking Grades by category break down as Completion A+, Support A+, Career Outcomes A, 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.
Expect about 95.1% of students to graduate within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 62.0%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
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 $29,167 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $91,250.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $62,083 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
Pell Grant participation data is not reported.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $76,844 six years after enrollment. That sits about 76% above the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 86.7% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about 62.0% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
7.7% 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 Northwestern 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
Similar Schools
Institutions with similar academic profiles, selectivity, and outcomes
Nearby Schools
Other campuses you might consider
Other Illinois campuses you might consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Northwestern University's acceptance rate?
Northwestern University's acceptance rate is 7.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Northwestern University cost?
At Northwestern University, the average net price after aid is $29,167. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Northwestern University's ranking?
Northwestern University ranks #27 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Northwestern University's graduation rate?
At Northwestern University, the six-year graduation rate is 95.1%.
What are Northwestern University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Northwestern University report median earnings of $76,844 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
Contact Information
- Address Evanston, IL 60208
- Website www.northwestern.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$10.55B