Northeastern University vs. Suffolk University: Cost, Bar Passage & Outcomes Compared
Both are Massachusetts law schools. On the most recent ABA Standard 509 data, Northeastern University is the more selective admit (median LSAT 164 vs 155); Northeastern University posts the higher first-time bar passage (87.39% vs 79.37%); Suffolk University is cheaper on sticker tuition ($62,610 vs $65,652); Suffolk University places more graduates in full-time JD jobs (89.4% vs 86.9%).
Side by side (ABA Standard 509)
| Metric | Northeastern University | Suffolk University | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions | |||
| Median LSAT | 164 | 155 | Northeastern University |
| Median undergraduate GPA | 3.77 | 3.58 | Northeastern University |
| Acceptance rate | 24.2% | 61.9% | Northeastern University |
| Cost | |||
| Resident tuition | $65,652 | $62,610 | Suffolk University |
| Non-resident tuition | $65,652 | $62,610 | Suffolk University |
| Median grant | $31,000 | $22,445 | Northeastern University |
| Bar passage | |||
| First-time bar passage | 87.39% | 79.37% | Northeastern University |
| Two-year ultimate bar passage | 96.74% | 87.75% | Northeastern University |
| Bar passage vs. state average | +4.5 pts | -4.1 pts | Northeastern University |
| Employment | |||
| Full-time, long-term JD employment | 86.9% | 89.4% | Suffolk University |
| Large-firm (250+) employment | 20.6% | 11.2% | Northeastern University |
| Federal clerkships | 2.3% | 1.1% | Northeastern University |
15-year trajectory
Full profiles & related
Northeastern University full profile · Suffolk University full profile · All Massachusetts law schools
FAQ
Is Northeastern University or Suffolk University harder to get into?
Northeastern University is the tougher admit — its median LSAT is 164 against Suffolk University's 155.
Which is cheaper, Northeastern University or Suffolk University?
Suffolk University is cheaper on sticker: resident tuition of $62,610 versus Northeastern University's $65,652.
Which has better bar passage, Northeastern University or Suffolk University?
Northeastern University has the higher first-time bar passage, 87.39% against Suffolk University's 79.37%.
Which has better job outcomes, Northeastern University or Suffolk University?
Suffolk University places more graduates in full-time, long-term JD jobs (89.4% vs 86.9%).
Source: ABA Standard 509 Required Disclosures, most recent reported cycle. Last updated June 26, 2026.