University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Northwestern University
Madison, WI — Evanston, IL
| Metric | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Madison, WI | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 36,902 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 45.2% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,427 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,603 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $42,103 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,354 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,484 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 89.4% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,275 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $73,792 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 729100.0% | 204100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and Northwestern University compare?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792. 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 Wisconsin-Madison or Northwestern University?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Northwestern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 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 89.4%.
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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