Northwestern University vs National University

Evanston, IL — San Diego, CA

Metric
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
National University
San Diego, CA
Location Evanston, IL San Diego, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 9,201 10,794
Acceptance Rate 7.7%
SAT Average 1,533
In-State Tuition $68,322 $13,284
Out-of-State Tuition $68,322 $13,284
Avg Net Price $29,167 $22,878
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $25,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 42.3%
Retention Rate 98.1% 52.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $76,844 $64,331
Median Earnings (10 yr) $89,363 $67,548
Loan Repayment Rate 204100.0% 606700.0%

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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National University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northwestern University and National University 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. National University (San Diego, CA) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $13,284, and median 10-year earnings of $67,548.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or National University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $67,548. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or National University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), National University is the more affordable option at $22,878 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 42.3%.

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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