University of Illinois Chicago vs Northwestern University

Chicago, IL — Evanston, IL

Metric
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Chicago, IL Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 22,170 9,201
Acceptance Rate 77.3% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,250 1,533
In-State Tuition $14,338 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $29,884 $68,322
Avg Net Price $10,974 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $16,704 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 61.0% 95.5%
Retention Rate 80.2% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,218 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $68,740 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 650300.0% 204100.0%

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

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University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Illinois Chicago and Northwestern University compare?
University of Illinois Chicago (Chicago, IL) has an acceptance rate of 77.3%, in-state tuition of $14,338, and median 10-year earnings of $68,740. 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 Illinois Chicago or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $68,740. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Illinois Chicago or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Illinois Chicago is the more affordable option at $10,974 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 61.0%.

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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