Colby vs Northwestern
How Colby and Northwestern stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Colby | Northwestern | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7% | 7% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1440-1560 | 1500-1570 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | ME | IL |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,190 | $84,653 |
| Average cost after aid | $18,341 | $29,200 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Colby and Northwestern are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7% of applicants.
- After aid, Colby is usually the cheaper option ($18,341 versus $29,200 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Northwestern asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Colby vs Northwestern FAQ
Is Colby or Northwestern harder to get into?
Colby and Northwestern are similarly selective, admitting about 7% and 7% of applicants.
Is Colby or Northwestern cheaper?
After financial aid, Colby is usually cheaper, about $18,341 per year on average versus $29,200 at Northwestern.
See your real chances at Colby and Northwestern.
Build my college list