Northern Illinois University vs California State University-Los Angeles
Dekalb, IL — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL | California State University-Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dekalb, IL | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 11,301 | 19,562 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69.8% | 91.3% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $13,248 | $7,160 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $13,248 | $19,760 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,391 | $3,967 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,162 | $13,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.2% | 52.8% |
| Retention Rate | 69.6% | 71.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $46,113 | $45,702 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,808 | $59,211 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 914700.0% | 569900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL
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California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern Illinois University and California State University-Los Angeles compare?▼
Northern Illinois University (Dekalb, IL) has an acceptance rate of 69.8%, in-state tuition of $13,248, and median 10-year earnings of $57,808. California State University-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 91.3%, in-state tuition of $7,160, and median 10-year earnings of $59,211.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or California State University-Los Angeles?▼
California State University-Los Angeles graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $59,211 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or California State University-Los Angeles?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $3,967 per year versus $13,391.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
California State University-Los Angeles has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 52.8% vs 49.2%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025