Northern Illinois University vs Stanford University

Dekalb, IL — Stanford, CA

Metric
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Location Dekalb, IL Stanford, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 11,301 7,554
Acceptance Rate 69.8% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $13,248 $65,910
Out-of-State Tuition $13,248 $65,910
Avg Net Price $13,391 $13,807
Median Debt at Graduation $22,162 $12,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 49.2% 92.4%
Retention Rate 69.6% 98.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,113 $102,887
Median Earnings (10 yr) $57,808 $124,080
Loan Repayment Rate 914700.0% 62500.0%

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
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northern Illinois University and Stanford 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. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or Stanford University?
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or Stanford University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Illinois University is the more affordable option at $13,391 per year versus $13,807.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Stanford University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 92.4% 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