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Northwestern University vs Washington and Lee University

6

Northwestern University

1

Washington and Lee University

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Northwestern University Washington and Lee University Winner
Acceptance Rate 7% 17% Northwestern University
Graduation Rate 96% 95% Northwestern University
Avg Earnings (5yr) $76,844 $76,516 Northwestern University
Median Debt $15,000 $19,500 Northwestern University
Tuition (In-State) $65,997 $64,525 Washington and Lee University
Retention Rate 97% 95% Northwestern University
Financial Aid 19% 15% Northwestern University

Comparison Analysis

Northwestern University graduates earn slightly more than Washington and Lee University graduates, with median earnings of $76,844 compared to $76,516. Northwestern's tuition is also higher, costing $65,997 versus Washington and Lee's $64,525. Northwestern has a higher graduation rate at 96.2% compared to Washington and Lee's 94.9%. Northwestern is much more selective, with an acceptance rate of 7.2%, while Washington and Lee's acceptance rate is 17.4%.

Northwestern University has a higher graduation rate and lower acceptance rate than Washington and Lee University. Washington and Lee University has lower tuition. Both schools have similar median earnings for graduates.

A student prioritizing selectivity and graduation rates might favor Northwestern University. A student prioritizing lower tuition costs might favor Washington and Lee University. Both schools offer similar earnings potential after graduation.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Northwestern University Earnings Washington and Lee University Earnings Difference
Law $210,979 $77,253 173% favor Northwestern University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $224,402 $76,627 193% favor Northwestern University
Economics $84,932 $71,737 18% favor Northwestern University
Political Science and Government $54,737 $0
Journalism $50,426 $0
Neurobiology and Neurosciences $35,334 $0
Psychology, General $44,088 $0
Journalism $46,346 $0
Biology, General $0 $0
Music $34,823 $0

Quick Facts

Type Private Non-Profit
Location Evanston, IL
Setting City
Students 8,960
Type Private Non-Profit
Location Lexington, VA
Setting Town
Students 1,884

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern University has median earnings of $76,844 and tuition of $65,997. Washington and Lee University has median earnings of $76,516 and tuition of $64,525. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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