Pennsylvania Western University vs Northwestern University

California, PA — Evanston, IL

Metric
Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location California, PA Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,451 9,201
Acceptance Rate 94.3% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,063 1,533
In-State Tuition $11,436 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $16,054 $68,322
Avg Net Price $18,256 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $23,725 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 51.4% 95.5%
Retention Rate 71.7% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $38,474 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $47,295 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 432900.0% 204100.0%

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

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Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pennsylvania Western University and Northwestern University compare?
Pennsylvania Western University (California, PA) has an acceptance rate of 94.3%, in-state tuition of $11,436, and median 10-year earnings of $47,295. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania Western University or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $47,295. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania Western University or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Pennsylvania Western University is the more affordable option at $18,256 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 51.4%.

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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