Northern Illinois University vs University of Southern California
Dekalb, IL — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dekalb, IL | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 11,301 | 20,443 |
| Acceptance Rate | 69.8% | 9.8% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,495 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,248 | $72,097 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $13,248 | $72,097 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,391 | $32,740 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,162 | $18,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.2% | 91.9% |
| Retention Rate | 69.6% | 95.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $46,113 | $74,461 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,808 | $92,498 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 914700.0% | 435800.0% |
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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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northern Illinois University and University of Southern California 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. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Illinois University or University of Southern California?▼
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $57,808. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Illinois University or University of Southern California?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Illinois University is the more affordable option at $13,391 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% 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