Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Boston University vs Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Boston, MA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Boston UniversityNortheastern University
Acceptance Rate10.8%5.6%
In-State Tuition$65,168$63,141
Out-of-State Tuition$65,168$63,141
Average Net Price$14,465$29,097
Graduation Rate90.0%90.0%

GradFax Analysis

Boston University accepts 10.8% of applicants. Northeastern University accepts 5.6%. Boston University's tuition is $65,168. Northeastern University's is $63,141. Northeastern University is cheaper. Six-year graduation rates are close: 90% at Boston University, 90% at Northeastern University.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Boston University profileNortheastern University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Boston University or Northeastern University?

Northeastern University. It accepts 5.6% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Boston University or Northeastern University more affordable?

Northeastern University has lower published tuition: $63,141 versus $65,168. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. Boston University is at 90%; Northeastern University is at 90%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Boston University vs Northeastern University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax