Northeastern University vs Northwestern University

Updated on 20 September, 2024

Sachin Pundir

Sachin Pundir

University Admission Expert

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

1898

1850

No. of Students

21,000

16,000

Type of Institution

Private research

Private research 

Academic Affiliations

NECHEAACSB, GAC,CAPTECOSMA

ACEAAU, AAMCUMRNAICU, AACI  

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: 

University Name

QS Rankings-2024

Northeastern University

=375 

Northwestern University 

=47

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:

The admission requirements at Northwestern University are as follows: 

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

Merit Scholarships

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.  

Ujima Global Leaders Scholarship

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. 

Torch Scholars

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. 

Stamp Scholars

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

Northwestern University Scholarship

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. 

Northwestern Endowed Scholarships 

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. 

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

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:

Sectors

Percentage of Students

Public

31%

Private

36%

NGO/ Non-Profit

33%

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

18%

Engineering

14%

Consulting

16%

Government, Non-Profit, and Law

9%

Marketing, Media, and Communications

13%

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

7%

 

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?

The tuition fee of Northeastern University is lower than that of Northwestern University. The annual tuition fee of Northwestern University is $63,141, but at Northwestern, the tuition fee is $65,997

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 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. 

Did you find this article helpful?

Sachin Pundir

University Admission Expert

With over10 years of experience in the ed-tech sector, Sachin holds expertise in operations management, ensuring the smooth functioning of study abroad programs. He has deep understanding of the global university systems, acceptance rates, and selection process.

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