You must have encountered various comparisons of Northeastern University vs Northwestern University, but predicting which university offers the best study abroad opportunities can be confusing. Both Northeastern and Northwestern are renowned American universities, but what makes them different is their facilities for international students, tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities. While Northwestern University is a bit more expensive but has a higher acceptance rate of 7.5%, the former university is less challenging to get into and has a slightly lower acceptance rate of 7%.
Highlights
Features |
Northeastern University |
Northwestern University |
Year of Establishment |
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No. of Students |
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Type of Institution |
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Academic Affiliations |
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Popular Degrees Offered |
Engineering, Social Sciences, Business, Psychology, Mathematics and Statistics, Management, Biomedical Sciences, Computer and Information Sciences |
Engineering, Liberal Arts, Music, Education, Journalism, Business, Chemistry, Industrial Engineering, Legal Studies, Mathematics |
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: QS Rankings 2024
The QS rankings for the year 2024 of Northeastern and Northwestern universities are stated below:
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of Northeastern University is 7%, whereas at Northwestern University, it is 7.5%.
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements for international students depend on the course chosen. The list of eligibility requirements is mentioned below:
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University for International Students
Eligibility requirements at Northeastern University for international students:
- High school or university degree.
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Transcripts and Self-reported Academic reports
- English Language Proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
- Declaration of certification of finances (DCF)
Eligibility requirements at Northwestern University for international students are as follows:
- Northwestern application form
- High school or college certificates.
- Academic transcripts
- English language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo)
- Resume
- References (from guardians and teachers)
- Essay demonstrating your reason for admission
- In-person interview
Admission Requirements for Northeastern University vs Northwestern University
Northeastern University follows a highly selective admission procedure. The admission requirements are as follows:
- High school or university transcripts.
- Academic records such as high school or college reports.
- Proof of English Proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
- Paying the application fee of $75. You can also request a fee waiver.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Declaration of Certification of Finances (DCF) that can make you eligible for grants.
- Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)
- Teacher and school counselor recommendations (one each).
The admission requirements at Northwestern University are as follows:
- Online application.
- High school transcripts.
- Pay the application fee of $60 (non-refundable).
- English proficiency test scores.
- Standardized test scores like GMAT and GRE if required by your course.
- A personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendations
- List of extracurricular activities
- Alumni interviews (optional).
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: Courses and Fees
The fees of the universities for the 2024-25 session are as follows:
Course |
Northeastern University Fees |
Northwestern University Fees |
Bachelor's |
$375 (INR 31,263) per semester |
$2,179 (INR 1,81,234) (per unit) |
Master's |
$19,700 to $22,500 (INR 16,42,359 to INR 18,75,791) per semester |
$6,753 (INR 5,61,665) (per course) |
Doctorate |
$15,395 to $31,000 (INR 1,280,445 to 2,578,356) per semester |
$18,689 (INR 1,554,416) (per quarter) |
Scholarships Offered by Northeastern University vs Northwestern University
Scholarships that international students can apply at Northeastern University are listed below:
Scholarship Name |
Description |
Benefits |
These are need-based scholarships awarded to students with academic excellence needing financial assistance. Only students who seek admission within the regular deadline of January 1st are eligible. |
$28,000 annual awards that can be used to pay tuition fees. |
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A special scholarship program dedicated to students with the potential of becoming global leaders. |
The reward for this scholarship varies. Some of the perks include being recognized as a global leader and participating in awareness programs on campus. |
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These are full-tuition scholarships awarded to students who have overcome exceptional odds in life and have demonstrated academic excellence. The idea is to support first generations from diverse backgrounds. |
The reward for this scholarship varies. Students get financial support to carry on their education. |
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This scholarship is offered to extraordinary students who are competitive and invited. It covers tuition fees, travel and research expenses, and project stipends. |
Students receive annual rewards ranging from $6,000 to $90,000. The total four-year reward ranges between $24,000 to $360,000 and includes additional funds for study abroad, enrichment activities, leadership training, and academic conferences. |
The list of scholarships international students can apply for at Northwestern University is as follows:
Scholarship Name |
Description |
Benefits |
Awarded to students enrolled at the university with financial needs. |
Rewards range from $31,378 to $65,216, which can be used to pay the tuition fees. |
|
Awarded to students who deeply care about the university and its mission. |
The reward varies, and recipients get an opportunity to meet and bond with the donors. |
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Dedicated to students coming from low-income backgrounds with excellent academic records. |
The reward amount varies and covers tuition, other study-related costs, housing costs, and the cost of books. |
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: ROI
In comparing Northeastern University vs Northwestern University, both universities have shown excellent results in career prospects. According to surveys conducted by Northeastern University, 97% of the graduates are either employed or enrolled in schools within nine months. Around 78.2% of graduates are employed full-time, and 14% pursue further education. The percentage of Northeastern students in various employment sectors is as follows:
Considering the post-graduation surveys of Northwestern University, around 71% of students got employed immediately within six months of graduation, and 24% of students continued with further education. Northwestern University graduates got employed the most in these industries/ sectors:
Sector/ Industry |
Percentage of Students |
Business and Financial Services |
|
Engineering |
|
Consulting |
|
Government, Non-Profit, and Law |
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Marketing, Media, and Communications |
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Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals |
Studying in USA
Numerous students dream of studying in the USA, but the high tuition fees and living costs often worry them. Studying in the USA is expensive, but it is also renowned for offering the highest amount in the form of scholarships and financial aid to lessen students' financial burden.
Cost of Living
The cost of living per student at the Northeastern University and the Northwestern University is mentioned in the table below:
Living Costs |
Northeastern University |
Northwestern University |
Housing |
$3,488 (single room) $2,948 (double room) |
$4,316 (for one bedroom) $5,629 (for two bedrooms) |
Food |
$4,090 (per full semester) $2,045 (per half semester) |
Starting from $125 (per quarter) |
Student Activity/ Services |
$163 (per semester) |
$125 (per quarter) |
Cost of Study
The average cost of study in the USA for international students ranges between $26,290 to $35,800. The cost varies based on the type of institution chosen (public or private), scholarships and financial aid offered to international students, and housing and food costs.
Life and Culture
American universities are praised worldwide for their diverse culture and vibrant student life. Home to numerous ethnic communities, America offers the best environment for students to study abroad. As the country practices multiculturalism, you get to explore various cultures and religions during your study time. And undoubtedly, students get access to world-class education and research facilities.
Visa and Immigration Requirements
Most universities in the USA require international students to provide F-1 Visas. Some universities also accept J-1 visas, which are offered to students under special circumstances, such as the Fullbright exchange program.
Post-study Work Visa
International students with F-1 Visa are not allowed to work off-campus in their first year of study; however, they can work on-campus. After completing their studies, students with valid F-1 visas can engage in practical training opportunities. Students who successfully receive work authorization can proceed with career opportunities.
Northeastern University vs Northwestern University: Summary
Choosing the winner of the Northeastern University vs Northwestern University battle is challenging because both universities are renowned for their academic excellence. Although these universities share many similarities, they also offer some stark differences in student services, scholarships, and admission procedures. You must choose and pick a university that meets your educational goals and provides the types of courses you seek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which university is harder to get into: Northeastern University or Northwestern University?
According to trusted sources like CBS News, it is tougher to get into Northwestern University than Northeastern University. In their top 50 hardest colleges ranking, Northwestern University ranked 12th while Northeastern University ranked 47th.
Is Northeastern University more expensive than Northwestern University?
Do Northeastern University and Northwestern University offer online or distance learning courses?
Yes, both Northeastern and Northwestern universities offer online programs and distance learning opportunities.
What are the most popular UG and PG courses at Northeastern University and Northwestern University?
The most popular UG and PG courses at Northeastern University are Engineering, Law, MBA, Computer Science, Criminology, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Psychology,. At Northwestern University, the most popular courses that students pursue are Engineering and Technology, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Life Sciences, Humanities, Management, and Social Sciences.
How does the grading system work at Northeastern University and Northwestern University?
At Northeastern University, the grades range from A to F. There are some special grades like W, which stands for course withdrawal, I means incomplete, and U, which signifies unsatisfactory. Northwestern University also has grades ranging from A to F, and special grades like X stand for failed to earn credit: missed the final exam, and Y means failed to earn credit: work incomplete.
Which University is more prestigious: Northeastern University or Northwestern University?
In the Northeastern University vs Northwestern University battle, it is hard to predict the winner as both universities are recognized for their academic excellence, have almost similar acceptance rates, ranging between 7 to 7.5%, and have similar admission requirements. It's essential for prospective students to thoroughly research and consider factors such as faculty expertise, resources, campus culture, and program offerings to determine which university aligns best with their educational aspirations.
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