Northeastern University vs Princeton University

Northeastern University is the more selective of the two at 5%, versus 5% at Princeton University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Northeastern University
Most selective
5%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1530
Private · Massachusetts
Princeton University
Most selective
5%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · New Jersey

Northeastern University vs Princeton University: the differences that matter

How Northeastern University and Princeton University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Northeastern University and Princeton University are almost equally selective (5% vs 5%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Northeastern University leans more on volunteer work, level of applicant interest, while Princeton University puts more weight on class rank, standardized test scores, application essay. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Northeastern University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1530 and Princeton University's is around 1570. Admitted students at Princeton University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorNortheastern UniversityPrinceton University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankconsideredimportant
Standardized test scoresimportantvery important
Application essayimportantvery important
Recommendationsimportantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesimportantvery important
Talent / abilityimportantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Northeastern University or Princeton University harder to get into?

Northeastern University is harder to get into, with a 5% acceptance rate versus 5% at Princeton University.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Northeastern University and Princeton University?

Northeastern University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1530, and Princeton University's is around 1570.

What are my chances at Northeastern University and Princeton University?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.