Northern Illinois University vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Dekalb, IL — New York, NY
| Metric | Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dekalb, IL | New York, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 11,301 | 8,973 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69.8% | 4.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,248 | $71,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $13,248 | $71,845 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,391 | $21,590 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,162 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.2% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 69.6% | 98.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $46,113 | $88,535 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,808 | $102,491 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 914700.0% | 185800.0% |
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
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern Illinois University and Columbia University in the City of New York 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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Illinois University is the more affordable option at $13,391 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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