The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Northwestern University

Knoxville, TN — Evanston, IL

Metric
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Knoxville, TN Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 30,418 9,201
Acceptance Rate 41.6% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,311 1,533
In-State Tuition $13,812 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $33,256 $68,322
Avg Net Price $18,976 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $20,500 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 73.7% 95.5%
Retention Rate 91.9% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,782 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $60,249 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 696900.0% 204100.0%

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

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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do The University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Northwestern University compare?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (Knoxville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 41.6%, in-state tuition of $13,812, and median 10-year earnings of $60,249. 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, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $60,249. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), The University of Tennessee-Knoxville is the more affordable option at $18,976 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 73.7%.

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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