---
title: Northeastern University — PickACampus
description: Explore Northeastern University: 5% acceptance rate, $78,413 median salary, and #46 ranking on PickACampus. Get key stats on tuition, SAT scores, and more.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/48
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Northeastern University

Northeastern University is a private institution located in an urban setting in Boston, Massachusetts, with a total enrollment of 17,326. The university maintains a highly selective 5% acceptance rate and a 91% graduation rate, with students earning a median starting salary of $78,413. Northeastern currently holds the #46 overall rank on PickACampus and features a 16:1 student-faculty ratio.

## Overview
- Location: Boston, MA
- Type: Private
- Setting: urban
- Total enrollment: 17,326

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 5%
- Average SAT: 1,497
- Average ACT: 34
- Average GPA: 3.85

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $66,162
- Out-of-state tuition: $66,162
- Room and board: $19,580
- Average financial aid: $32,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $24,250

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 91%
- Freshman retention: 97%
- Employment rate: 93%
- Average starting salary: $78,413

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 16:1
- Average class size: 25
- Classes under 20 students: 40%

## Notable
["Northeastern is renowned for its co-op program, offering students extensive real-world work experience.","The university has a unique urban campus integrated into the heart of Boston.","Northeastern's mascot is Paws, the Husky, symbolizing strength and resilience.","The Snell Library is open 24/7 during academic terms, a popular study spot."]

## Traditions
[{"name":"Husky Hunt","description":"A campus-wide scavenger hunt for new students during Welcome Week."},{"name":"Winter Fest","description":"An annual celebration with ice skating, hot chocolate, and winter activities."},{"name":"Senior Week","description":"A week of celebratory events for graduating seniors before commencement."},{"name":"Homecoming","description":"Alumni and students celebrate with athletic events and campus festivities."}]

## Notable alumni
[{"name":"Shawn Fanning","description":"Creator of Napster, pioneering peer-to-peer file sharing."},{"name":"Wendy Williams","description":"Emmy-nominated television host, author, and media personality."},{"name":"Biz Stone","description":"Co-founder of Twitter, influential social media platform."},{"name":"Jeff Clarke","description":"Former Vice Chairman of Innovation and Operations at Dell."},{"name":"Terry J. Lundgren","description":"Former Chairman and CEO of Macy's, Inc."}]

## Common questions

Q: What is Northeastern University's acceptance rate?
A: Northeastern University's acceptance rate is 5%.

Q: How much does Northeastern University cost?
A: Tuition at Northeastern University is $66,162 per year, before room and board and fees.

Q: Where is Northeastern University located?
A: Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA.

Q: What SAT score do you need for Northeastern University?
A: The average SAT score at Northeastern University is 1,497.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Northeastern University?
A: Northeastern University has a 6-year graduation rate of 91%.

Compare Northeastern University with other schools free at https://pickacampus.com/college/48