Side-by-side comparison

Northwestern University vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Northwestern University and University of Michigan-Ann Arbor are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Northwestern University leads on 6 of 10 comparable fields.

Metric Northwestern University University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Location Evanston, US Ann Arbor, US
Admission rate 7.0% 18.0%
SAT average 1,530 1,450
QS World rank #42 #45
THE World rank #30 #22
Median earnings (10yr) $96,400 $85,100
Annual cost $81,598 $73,438
Total students 22,601 47,907
Founded 1851 1817
Completion rate 96.0% 92.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is Northwestern University harder to get into than University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Northwestern University has the lower admission rate. Northwestern University: 7.0%. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: 18.0%.

Which is ranked higher — Northwestern University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Northwestern University is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. Northwestern University: #42. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: #45.

Which is cheaper — Northwestern University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the lower cost of attendance. Northwestern University: $81,598. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: $73,438. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.