Southern Illinois University-Carbondale vs Lehigh University

Carbondale, IL — Bethlehem, PA

Metric
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Location Carbondale, IL Bethlehem, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 8,494 5,898
Acceptance Rate 86.9% 25.9%
SAT Average 1,055 1,440
In-State Tuition $13,334 $64,980
Out-of-State Tuition $13,334 $64,980
Avg Net Price $13,297 $36,931
Median Debt at Graduation $21,543 $21,960
4-Year Graduation Rate 59.0% 88.5%
Retention Rate 66.8% 93.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,087 $88,810
Median Earnings (10 yr) $53,390 $105,584
Loan Repayment Rate 789000.0% 126500.0%

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

Full Profile
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and Lehigh University compare?
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (Carbondale, IL) has an acceptance rate of 86.9%, in-state tuition of $13,334, and median 10-year earnings of $53,390. Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale or Lehigh University?
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $53,390. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale or Lehigh University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is the more affordable option at $13,297 per year versus $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% vs 59.0%.

More Comparisons

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