Northern Illinois University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Dekalb, IL — Fort Collins, CO
| Metric | Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL | Colorado State University-Fort Collins Fort Collins, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dekalb, IL | Fort Collins, CO |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 11,301 | 25,538 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69.8% | 88.5% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $13,248 | $13,373 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $13,248 | $34,783 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,391 | $21,279 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,162 | $20,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.2% | 66.7% |
| Retention Rate | 69.6% | 85.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $46,113 | $49,748 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,808 | $60,543 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 914700.0% | 769900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern Illinois University and Colorado State University-Fort Collins 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. Colorado State University-Fort Collins (Fort Collins, CO) has an acceptance rate of 88.5%, in-state tuition of $13,373, and median 10-year earnings of $60,543.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?▼
Colorado State University-Fort Collins graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $60,543 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Illinois University is the more affordable option at $13,391 per year versus $21,279.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Colorado State University-Fort Collins has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 66.7% vs 49.2%.
More Comparisons
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