Southern Illinois University-Carbondale vs Northwestern University

Carbondale, IL — Evanston, IL

Metric
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Carbondale, IL Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 8,494 9,201
Acceptance Rate 86.9% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,055 1,533
In-State Tuition $13,334 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $13,334 $68,322
Avg Net Price $13,297 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $21,543 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 59.0% 95.5%
Retention Rate 66.8% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,087 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $53,390 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 789000.0% 204100.0%

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

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Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and Northwestern 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. 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, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $53,390. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale or Northwestern 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 $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 59.0%.

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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