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College comparison
Northeastern vs UCLA
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Northeastern Boston, MA |  UCLA Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateNortheastern University is more selective | 5% | 9% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1440–1540 | — |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 17,326 | 33,475 |
| Avg net price | $30,915 | $12,548 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Northeastern reports higher median earnings | $92,538 | $82,511 |
| Graduation rate | 91% | 93% |
| Median debt | $24,250 | $14,000 |
| Economic mobility | 2.4% | 5.6% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Public |
Northeastern vs UCLA: how they compare
For an affluent, data-driven family, the choice between Northeastern and UCLA is a contrast between a public institution and a private university.
By the numbers UCLA offers financial value, with an average net price of $13k generating a 6.6× earnings-per-dollar value multiple, compared to Northeastern's $31k net price and 3.0× multiple. UCLA also demonstrates superior economic mobility (560% vs. 244%). Northeastern counters with higher 10-year median earnings ($93k vs. $83k) and a more selective acceptance rate (5% vs. 9%). UCLA shows greater stability in admissions (64% admit-rate volatility vs. 284% for Northeastern). Both have strong graduation rates (UCLA 93%, Northeastern 91%) and are in city settings.
Where they overlap Both are selective national universities located in major urban centers (Boston and Los Angeles). They share a reputation for academic rigor and provide resource-rich campus environments.
How they differ Culturally, UCLA embodies the scale of a premier public research university, with a traditional collegiate atmosphere. Northeastern’s identity is intertwined with its co-op program, promoting a career-integrated ethos. The locations offer distinct settings: a California campus experience versus Boston's historic, urban setting.
Who each suits UCLA suits a student seeking a large-university experience with public value and a vibrant campus culture. Northeastern is for a professionally focused student who values a curriculum built around gaining work experience in Boston's economy.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Northeastern University or University of California-Los Angeles harder to get into?
- Northeastern University is more selective: Northeastern University's acceptance rate is approximately 5% and University of California-Los Angeles's is approximately 9% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Northeastern University vs University of California-Los Angeles?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1440–1540 at Northeastern University and — at University of California-Los Angeles. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.