<p>Size is definitely one important factor. Northwestern has roughly 8500 students and their engineering school is about 1450. Tufts has only about 5100 students and roughly 800 engineering students. Tufts is known for the availability of their professors, and because of their relatively small size, they can live up to this standard. Northwestern, on the other hand, has more funding committed to engineering and, significantly, research opportunities. The balance between personal attention and funding is one you must decide on yourself.</p>
<p>If studying abroad is important to you, both schools have options. Tufts is one of the best schools at allowing all students to study abroad. Northwestern’s co-op program, mentioned above, allows you to work internationally over a summer and stay in that country to study abroad. </p>
<p>In terms of location, you should consider how far you are willing to travel and what you are looking for in a campus. Both have beautiful campuses, but the two are very different. Similarly, each is near a city, but Boston and Chicago are very. very different. </p>
<p>If you’re interested solely in rankings, Northwestern is higher in both overall engineering and electrical engineering. However, I would not recommend basing your decision off rankings.</p>
<p>As a future Northwestern student, I give it my highest recommendation. But either way, remember that you will receive an exceptional education.</p>