Northwestern University vs Sonoma State University
Evanston, IL — Rohnert Park, CA
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Sonoma State University Rohnert Park, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Rohnert Park, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 5,166 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 93.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $8,624 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $21,224 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $12,885 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $16,705 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 59.1% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 79.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $52,179 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $65,986 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 260000.0% |
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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Sonoma State University
Rohnert Park, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Sonoma State 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. Sonoma State University (Rohnert Park, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.4%, in-state tuition of $8,624, and median 10-year earnings of $65,986.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northwestern University or Sonoma State University?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $65,986. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or Sonoma State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Sonoma State University is the more affordable option at $12,885 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 59.1%.
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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