University of California-Riverside vs Northwestern University

Riverside, CA — Evanston, IL

Metric
University of California-Riverside
Riverside, CA
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Riverside, CA Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 22,593 9,201
Acceptance Rate 76.4% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,533
In-State Tuition $15,606 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $49,806 $68,322
Avg Net Price $14,304 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 76.3% 95.5%
Retention Rate 87.6% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,593 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,699 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 676000.0% 204100.0%

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

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University of California-Riverside
Riverside, CA
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Riverside and Northwestern University compare?
University of California-Riverside (Riverside, CA) has an acceptance rate of 76.4%, in-state tuition of $15,606, and median 10-year earnings of $67,699. 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, University of California-Riverside or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $67,699. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Riverside or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Riverside is the more affordable option at $14,304 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 76.3%.

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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