By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 01/2025)

Total Cost of Attendance

Northeastern University is known for its Cooperative Education Program, which combines classroom learning and experiences to prepare students for careers in many fields. But access to this co-op style of learning doesn’t come cheap: In 2023-24, Northeastern University tuition was $63,141. Contrast this against the average cost of tuition for a private four-year institution in the U.S. of $41,450. The good news is that student loans and scholarships can make this price tag easier to swallow.

Financial Aid

Approximately 80% of new students receive some sort of financial aid, including student loans, grants, and scholarships. Northeastern is need-aware for international students only, meaning international students who have financial needs will still be considered during the application process.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

While 38% of Northeastern students take out federal loans to help pay for Northeastern tuition, just 6% take out private student loans. The average amount borrowed with private loans is $32,680.

Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or state-affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for as it generally may have better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

When considering colleges, it’s wise to look at the full “cost of attendance” for four years of education, which includes fees and room and board. The average cost for a four-year degree at a private school in the U.S., according to CollegeData.com, is $241,680. At Northeastern, that number is $338,924, based on 2023-24 rates.

Here’s some Massachusetts Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

In 2023-24, students at Northeastern paid $63,141 for tuition and fees and $18,790 for room and board, for a total of $84,731 for the year. Here’s some helpful student loan and scholarship information to help you explore options for paying for Northeastern tuition.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Tuition for graduate school at Northeastern University was $27,728 for the 2023-24 school year, with an additional $372 in fees. That makes the total for graduate school $28,100. This is higher than the average annual cost of graduate school in the United States, which is $21,730 per year. There are graduate loans that can help you cover these costs.

Cost Per Credit Hour

If you opt to attend Northeastern on a part-time basis, you won’t pay the full-time tuition we’ve discussed. you’ll pay about $2,031 per credit hour, based on 2024-25 pricing.

Campus Housing Expenses

First- and second-year students are required to live on campus at Northeastern. Most rooms are double or triple occupancy, though there are limited single rooms. Third-year and beyond students can opt to live off-campus. Northeastern has a site where students can find housing at reasonable rates. Keep in mind you may be required to sign a 12-month lease, even if the school semester is shorter.

Find out more about the university’s housing options.

Northeastern University Acceptance Rate

With 5,797 students accepted out of the 96,631 that applied, the Northeastern acceptance rate is at an all-time low of 6% (down from last year’s 6.8%).

Admission Requirements

To be accepted as a student at Northeastern University, there are certain requirements and documentation that must come with your application.

Required:

•  Secondary GPA, school report, and transcripts

•  Recommendations

•  Early Decision Agreement (if applicable)

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

The deadline for Early Decision I is November 1, with a decision given by January 1. The deadline for Early Decision II is January 1, with a decision by March 1. The Regular Decision deadline is January 1, with a decision given by April 1. You can apply to Northeastern here .

SAT and ACT Scores

Through 2026, Northeastern will not require SAT or ACT scores to be submitted with applications.

However, you may want to compare your test scores with those in the 25th and 75th percentile:

Popular Majors at Northeastern University

Northeastern offers more than 90 majors and areas of concentration to choose from. Here are some of the most popular.

1. Business

Northeastern offers many degrees in business, including those that partner business administration with communication studies, design, economics, health science, mathematics, political science, psychology, computer science, and cybersecurity, among others.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 957

2. Computer and Information Sciences

Northeastern offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in computer science. The BS focuses on the technical aspects of the field of study, while the BA offers more flexibility for electives.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 556

3. Mechanical Engineering

You can opt to study mechanical engineering, or you can combine a solid foundation in the subject, combined with materials science, history, physics, or design.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 229

4. Econometrics and Quantitative Economics

Students at Northeastern have the option to earn either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in economics. The BA offers six core courses in economics and liberal arts courses in economic literature, economic history, the history of economic thought, and political economy. The BS covers economic development, game theory, and mathematical economics, as well as mathematics and computer science courses.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 155

5. Biology

Students of biology explore the processes of life, from molecules and cells through organs and organ systems to populations, ecosystems, and evolution.

Undergraduate degrees in 2021-22: 134

6. Health and Medical Administrative Services

Graduates in the health sciences program go on to have a variety of careers in the health and medical fields. Coursework includes studying the natural sciences, social sciences, and the liberal arts, as well as public health and health care.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 130

7. Computer Engineering

Computer engineering students learn both theory and practice when it comes to hardware and software design. They also learn about computer organization and architecture, computer networks, computer-aided design, programming languages, and optimization theory.

Undergraduate degrees in 2021-22: 130

8. Neuroscience

Students can opt to major in behavioral neuroscience, or combine that with design, philosophy, computer science, or data science.

Undergraduate degrees in 2021-22: 124

9. Nursing

Northeastern offers a Bachelor of Science in nursing, as well as accelerated programs. These programs prepare students to become nurses in a variety of fields, and there is a great demand for these professionals right now.

Undergraduate degrees in 2021-22: 111

10. International Business

If traveling abroad appeals to you, Northeastern offers a bachelor’s degree in international business. You’ll have the opportunity to study in another country as well as get work experience abroad.

Undergraduate degrees in 2021-22: 79

To find out more about Northeastern’s academic programs, use this resource .

Graduation Rate

So how many students actually graduate from Northeastern? A high percentage, actually. For students who started in 2017, the 6-year graduation rate is 90%.

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Students graduating from Northeastern make significantly more than the average for private four-year school students, which is $68,516. Instead, Northeastern students make, on average, $93,000 a year.

By Jacqueline DeMarco

A 717 FICO® score is considered good and is currently the average credit score in the U.S. That means you should be able to access a variety of credit products, though not necessarily at the lowest-available interest rates.

A 717 score falls in FICO’s “good” range (670 to 739), which is smack dab in the middle of their five credit tiers — above Fair and Very Poor credit but below the Very Good and Exceptional categories. Here’s a look at what types of credit cards and loans you can get with a 717 score and how to make the most of your good credit.

What Does a 717 Credit Score Mean?

Your credit score is a number (typically between 300 and 850) designed to represent how likely you are to pay your bills on time. It’s based on information in your credit reports, including your payment history, how much of your available credit you’re using, types of credit accounts you have, and the length of your credit history.

A 717 credit score falls in the Good range of the FICO scoring model, the one most commonly used in the U.S. Here’s how FICO ranks credit scores:

•   300 to 579: Poor

•   580 to 669: Fair

•   670 to 739: Good

•   740 to 799: Very Good

•   800 to 850: Exceptional

While 717 is not in the Very Good or Exceptional range, it’s still a respectable score. It shows lenders that you’re a relatively low-risk borrower, which can make it easier to secure credit cards and loans, along with favorable interest rates. However, improving your credit profile can help you unlock more options, at more affordable lending terms.

A credit score of 717 can signify a relatively short credit history marked by good credit management. Or, it might indicate a longer credit history marred by a few missteps, such as a late payment here and there, or a tendency toward high credit usage.

💡 Quick Tip: Need help covering the cost of a wedding, honeymoon, or new baby? A SoFi personal loan can help you fund major life events — without the high interest rates of credit cards.

What Else Can You Get With a 717 Credit Score?

A 717 credit score opens up a variety of financial opportunities. Here’s a guide to what you can expect in different lending categories.

Can I Get a Credit Card With a 717 Credit Score?

A 717 credit score puts you in the path of a variety of credit card options. This includes credit cards that let you earn points, miles, or cash back on purchases. You might even be able to score a card with an introductory 0% annual percentage rate (APR) offer that can help you save on interest for a certain period of time.

However, premium credit cards with exclusive perks like travel benefits or concierge services will likely be out of reach if you have good, rather than very good or exceptional, credit. Plus, issuers may not offer you the very best rates.

Keep in mind, though, that your credit score is only one part of the picture. Lenders will generally consider other factors, such as your income and job status, when deciding whether or not to approve you for a credit card and at what rate. This means that two people with a 717 credit score applying for the same card might not both get approved, and if they do, their terms could be different.

Recommended: Using a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 717 Credit Score?

You can generally get a car loan with nearly any credit score, but with a 717 score, you have a good chance of getting approved by many auto lenders. A report by credit bureau Experian® found that roughly 71% of cars financed in the third quarter of 2024 were for borrowers with credit scores of 661 or higher.

Borrowers with good credit scores tend to qualify for interest rates that are significantly lower than those offered to borrowers with fair or poor credit. This can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. With merely good credit, however, a lender probably won’t offer you their top rates and terms.

To reduce the interest you pay on an auto loan, consider making a larger down payment. Borrowing less means you’ll pay less in interest over time. Plus, many lenders offer lower interest rates for larger down payments because it reduces their financial risk.

It’s also a good idea to shop around and compare offers from different lenders before finalizing a car financing deal. The rate offered by the dealer might be higher than what you could get at a bank, credit union, or online lender.

Can I Get a Mortgage With a 717 Credit Score?

A 717 credit score should give you relatively easy access to a mortgage. This score meets the minimum requirements for most conventional home loans. Conventional mortgages aren’t insured or guaranteed by a government agency but are backed by private lenders and are the most commonly used type of mortgage loan.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or have a lower down payment, an FHA loan (a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration) could be an option. These loans often have more lenient credit requirements, so your 717 score is well above the minimum.

While you won’t necessarily be a candidate for the lowest available rates, a 717 credit score mortgage rate can be competitive. As of October 2024, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage of $300,000 for buyers with a FICO between 660 and 670 was 6.563%.

Keep in mind that your credit score is one of many factors that can impact your eligibility for a home loan. Mortgage lenders will typically also consider your income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount when evaluating your application.

💡 Quick Tip: In a climate where interest rates are rising, you’re likely better off with a fixed interest rate than a variable rate, even though the variable rate is initially lower. On the flip side, if rates are falling, you may be better off with a variable interest rate.

Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 717 Credit Score?

Personal loans are a versatile lending product, since you can use the funds for various purposes, such as consolidating high-interest debt, funding a major purchase, or covering unexpected expenses. Here’s what you can expect when applying for a personal loan with a 717 credit score:

•   Approval: Many lenders will approve personal loans for borrowers with a score in the good range.

•   Interest rates: Your interest rate may not be as low as rates available to those with very good or exceptional credit. However, you have a strong chance of securing a personal loan around the average rate of 12.29% (as of December 18, 2024), which is significantly lower than the average 20.35% rate for credit cards (as of the same date).

•   Loan amounts: Personal loans amounts generally range from $500 to $100,000. A 717 score gives you access to a wider range of loan amounts. However, your income and debt-to-income ratio will also play a significant role in determining the maximum loan amount.

To secure the best terms, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders.

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

The Takeaway

A 717 credit score is a solid foundation for accessing various financial products and services. It indicates that you’re a responsible borrower and opens the door to many opportunities, including credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans. While it may not guarantee the very best terms, it’s still a strong score that lenders view favorably.

To make the most of your 717 credit score, consider the following tips:

•   Monitor your credit: It’s a good idea to regularly check your credit reports to ensure accuracy and identify areas for improvement.

•   Pay bills on time: Your payment history is a major factor in your credit score, so you’ll want to be sure that you always pay your bills by their due dates.

•   Keep credit utilization low: Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit to maintain or build your credit.

•   Limit hard inquiries: Applying for multiple credit products within a short period of time can temporarily lower your score.

By maintaining good credit habits, you can continue to build your good credit and unlock even more financial opportunities in the future.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.