Northeastern University vs Boston University

Comparison between Northeastern University and Boston University

Subject Strength

Both Northeastern University (NEU) and Boston University (BU) are strong in business, engineering, and computer science. NEU's Khoury College of Computer Sciences is ranked #27 in the U.S. so it would be an excellent choice for students interested in tech, with its co-op program infusing hands-on experience. BU's Questrom School of Business ranks a bit higher #74 globally in 2025 with a solid advantage in finance and management. 

General Information

Northeastern University was established in 1898 as a private research university with an international presence, having campuses in Boston, Charlotte, Seattle, Silicon Valley, and Toronto, and over 38,000 students. Boston University was founded in 1839 with a slightly bigger enrollment of more than 37,000 students from 140+ nations and an more accessible campus within the city of Boston's skyline. They are both R1 high-research activity institutions but NEU's cooperative education program stands out in particular.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Northeastern is 5.2%, more selective than the 10.9% at Boston University. NEU's competitive admissions are due to its test-optional stance and emphasis on high-achieving applicants (average GPA: 4.2). BU's lower acceptance rate still denotes good competition, with a varied applicant pool and a test-optional status. Application fees are $75 for NEU and $80 for BU, both utilizing the Common Application.

Location Facts

Both institutions are in Boston, Massachusetts, with rich urban settings. NEU's 73-acre Fenway Cultural District campus is close to cultural sites such as the Museum of Fine Arts. BU's open campus integrates into Boston city life, with easy proximity to professional centers in finance and technology. Both sites provide a rich network of cultural and networking opportunities, with Boston's academic and innovation hub enriching students at either school.

Hostel Fees

Northeastern's on-campus housing fees vary between $10,000-$14,000 per year for undergraduates with scarce graduate housing, prompting most to find off-campus accommodations ($800-$1,500/month). BU housing fees are comparable at $12,000-$16,000 per year, with more graduate housing. Being private, neither institution has much government assistance, but BU's larger endowment could fund more financial aid (46% of BU students receive need-based aid compared to 29% at NEU).

Salary Package and Recruitment Process

Northeastern's co-op program yields 80% of alumni having jobs within six months, with Khoury College computer science alumnae making $95,000-$120,000. BU has 84% of MBA graduates working within three months, with median incomes of $108,000, being especially strong in finance and consulting. NEU career services rank #3 nationally (Princeton Review), while BU's massive alumni network (387,000+) adds strength to recruitment opportunities with leading firms.

Infrastructure

Northeastern's campus boasts up-to-date buildings, such as the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex (LEED Gold) and a library that contains more than 2 million books and journals. BU's George Sherman Union and Mugar Memorial Library have vast resources, with BU's open campus granting access to top-of-the-line research facilities in all disciplines. Both institutions promote interdisciplinary research, but BU's bigger campus blends more in harmony with Boston's city infrastructure.