Northwestern University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Evanston, IL — Fort Collins, CO
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Colorado State University-Fort Collins Fort Collins, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Fort Collins, CO |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 25,538 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 88.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $13,373 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $34,783 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $21,279 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $20,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 66.7% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 85.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $49,748 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $60,543 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 769900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Colorado State University-Fort Collins compare?▼
Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363. Colorado State University-Fort Collins (Fort Collins, CO) has an acceptance rate of 88.5%, in-state tuition of $13,373, and median 10-year earnings of $60,543.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $60,543. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Colorado State University-Fort Collins is the more affordable option at $21,279 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 66.7%.
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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