Northwestern College vs California State University-Fresno

Orange City, IA — Fresno, CA

Metric
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
Location Orange City, IA Fresno, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 1,175 21,605
Acceptance Rate 80.4% 95.3%
SAT Average
In-State Tuition $36,710 $7,350
Out-of-State Tuition $36,710 $19,950
Avg Net Price $25,907 $7,000
Median Debt at Graduation $23,249 $14,505
4-Year Graduation Rate 64.8% 55.9%
Retention Rate 73.5% 81.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,731 $44,012
Median Earnings (10 yr) $49,802 $61,244
Loan Repayment Rate 58300.0% 587900.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Northwestern College
Orange City, IA
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California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northwestern College and California State University-Fresno compare?
Northwestern College (Orange City, IA) has an acceptance rate of 80.4%, in-state tuition of $36,710, and median 10-year earnings of $49,802. California State University-Fresno (Fresno, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.3%, in-state tuition of $7,350, and median 10-year earnings of $61,244.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern College or California State University-Fresno?
California State University-Fresno graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $61,244 vs $49,802. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern College or California State University-Fresno?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fresno is the more affordable option at $7,000 per year versus $25,907.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Northwestern College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 64.8% vs 55.9%.

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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