Northeastern University

School Overview

Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA, 02115, set within a urban environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #46 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Admission to Northeastern University is exceptionally competitive. Only 5% of applicants are offered a place, putting it among the most selective schools in the nation. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 1440-1540 and ACT scores of 33-35. Applications are due by Jan. 1, so students should plan their materials well in advance.

With 17,432 undergraduates, Northeastern University is large enough to offer a wide range of academic programs yet maintains a sense of campus community that helps students find their place. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 51% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding.

The most popular fields of study at Northeastern University include Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (23% of students, median early-career salary: $110,708), Engineering (18% of students, median early-career salary: $104,660), and Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services (16% of students, median early-career salary: $149,127). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

The published tuition and fees are $69,289 per year. Room and board adds approximately $22,048. However, the average net price after financial aid is $28,521, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $60,416 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Northeastern University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Northeastern University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Northeastern University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.