Northern Illinois University vs Lehigh University
Dekalb, IL — Bethlehem, PA
| Metric | Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL | Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dekalb, IL | Bethlehem, PA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 11,301 | 5,898 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69.8% | 25.9% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,440 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,248 | $64,980 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $13,248 | $64,980 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,391 | $36,931 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,162 | $21,960 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.2% | 88.5% |
| Retention Rate | 69.6% | 93.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $46,113 | $88,810 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,808 | $105,584 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 914700.0% | 126500.0% |
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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Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern Illinois University and Lehigh University 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. Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or Lehigh University?▼
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or Lehigh University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Illinois University is the more affordable option at $13,391 per year versus $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% 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