Northeastern University Acceptance Rate 2026: 16.65%

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Northeastern University acceptance rate 2026

Quick Answer

Northeastern University Oakland has an acceptance rate of 16.65% as of April 2026, making it a highly selective institution. With a tuition of $67,778 per year and an average net price of $25,181 after financial aid, the school serves a small student body of 464 undergraduates. Graduates earn a median of $92,538 ten years after entry, reflecting strong career outcomes for this specialized institution.

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Acceptance Snapshot

Northeastern University Oakland admitted 16.65% of applicants as of the 2026 academic year, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). This highly selective acceptance rate reflects the institution’s competitive admissions process and strong applicant pool.

The university maintains a notably intimate campus environment with just 464 students enrolled, creating a distinctive small-school experience within the broader higher education landscape. This low student population means individualized attention and close faculty-student relationships are defining characteristics of the Northeastern Oakland experience.

The 16.65% acceptance rate places Northeastern University Oakland among the most selective institutions in California and nationally, indicating that admitted students typically demonstrate exceptional academic credentials and compelling personal narratives.

Tuition & Costs

Annual Cost of Attendance at Northeastern University Oakland:

Cost ComponentAmount
Tuition & Fees$67,778
Average Net Price (After Aid)$25,181
Median Student Debt at Graduation$24,250

As of April 2026, Northeastern University Oakland charges $67,778 in tuition and fees for all students, regardless of residency status. The average net price—what students actually pay after grants and aid are applied—is $25,181 annually, representing a significant reduction from the sticker price. This figure demonstrates that financial aid plays a substantial role in making the institution accessible to qualified students.

The median student debt upon graduation is $24,250, suggesting that many students graduate with manageable debt loads relative to their post-graduation earning potential. Room, board, and other living expenses should be factored into the total cost of attendance; prospective students should contact the university’s financial aid office for a comprehensive cost estimate.

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Financial Aid Overview

Northeastern University Oakland’s average net price of $25,181 indicates that the institution is committed to making education affordable after accounting for financial aid packages. This net price is substantially lower than the published tuition rate of $67,778, reflecting institutional grants, federal aid, and other financial support available to students.

Students should note that actual financial aid packages vary based on individual circumstances, including family income, assets, and merit-based achievements. The university encourages prospective students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and contact the financial aid office for personalized aid estimates and information about merit scholarships, need-based grants, and federal loan options.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Graduates of Northeastern University Oakland earn a median of $92,538 ten years after initial enrollment, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (data fetched April 2026). This figure reflects the earning potential of alumni across all majors and career paths, demonstrating strong return on investment for degree holders.

The $92,538 median earnings figure, combined with the manageable median debt of $24,250, suggests that Northeastern Oakland graduates achieve solid financial outcomes and career success following graduation. This earnings metric is a key indicator for prospective students evaluating the financial value of their educational investment.

Demographics & Campus Life

Northeastern University Oakland serves a small, intimate student body of 464 undergraduates. The institution’s compact size fosters close-knit community connections and enables faculty to provide personalized mentorship and academic support.

The university’s location in Oakland, California, places students in a vibrant urban environment with access to diverse internship opportunities, cultural institutions, and professional networks in the San Francisco Bay Area.

FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at Northeastern University Oakland?

As of April 2026, Northeastern University Oakland has an acceptance rate of 16.65%, making it a highly selective institution. This means that admitted students represent the top tier of applicants in terms of academic credentials and personal qualities.

How much does Northeastern University Oakland cost?

The published tuition and fees are $67,778 per year. However, the average net price after financial aid is applied is $25,181 annually. The actual cost varies by individual based on financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. Prospective students should use the university’s net price calculator or contact the financial aid office for a personalized estimate.

What do Northeastern Oakland graduates earn?

According to the most recent data, graduates earn a median of $92,538 ten years after entry. This figure represents strong career outcomes and reflects the value of a degree from the institution across various fields of study.

Is Northeastern University Oakland a good value?

With an average net price of $25,181 and median earnings of $92,538 ten years post-graduation, the institution offers a reasonable return on investment. The median student debt of $24,250 is manageable relative to post-graduation earnings. However, “value” depends on individual circumstances, career goals, and alternative options. Prospective students should compare financial aid packages across institutions.

How many students attend Northeastern University Oakland?

Northeastern University Oakland has 464 undergraduates enrolled, making it a small institution. This size enables close faculty-student relationships, personalized advising, and a tight-knit campus community.

What is the location of Northeastern University Oakland?

The university is located in Oakland, California, placing students in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area. This urban location provides access to internship opportunities, professional networks, cultural institutions, and a dynamic business ecosystem.


Data Sources

The statistics and figures in this article come from the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, with data fetched on April 11, 2026. Acceptance rates, tuition costs, student enrollment figures, and post-graduation earnings reflect the most recent institutional data reported to federal education agencies.

Prospective students and families should verify all current figures directly with Northeastern University Oakland’s admissions and financial aid offices, as costs, aid policies, and enrollment figures may change. For the most up-to-date information on application requirements, deadlines, and financial aid, visit the university’s official website or contact the admissions office directly.