Built for Students, by Students
Help verify tuition, housing costs, and campus life data
Northwestern University
Explore one of the most distinguished institutions in IL. Your pathway to a brighter future begins here.
Annual Tuition
$65,997
Average Sticker Price
Admission Rate
7.1%
Selectivity Level
Graduation Rate
96.2%
Completion Success
Median Earnings
$89,363
10y Career Outlook
Related Guides & Reviews
In-depth articles about this school and region
Best Welding Schools in Illinois: Programs, Costs & Career Outlook
Read guide →
Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): The Transfer Framework Every IL Community College Student Needs
Read guide →
Illinois MAP Grant 2025: How to Qualify Before the Money Runs Out
Read guide →
Best Cosmetology Schools in Illinois: Programs, Costs & Career Outlook
Read guide →
About Institution
Northwestern University is a distinguished Private nonprofit, 4-Year institution located in Evanston, IL. With a competitive tuition profile of $65,997, it remains an attractive choice for ambitious students. A strong graduation rate of 96.2% underscores its academic rigor and effective student support systems.
Admissions Intel
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
Investment Return
Estimated College ROI Analysis
Total 4-Year Cost
$263,988
Based on sticker tuition
Estimated Payback
4.4 yrs
Time to recoup investment
Annual Earnings Boost
+$59,363
vs. $30k HS diploma baseline
10-Year Net Gain
+$329,642
Cumulative earnings advantage minus total college cost
20-Year Net Gain
+$923,272
Long-term projected return on your education investment
ROI estimates use the BLS national median of $30,000/yr for high school diploma holders as a baseline. Actual results vary based on major, career path, location, and individual circumstances. Median graduate debt at Northwestern University is $15,000.
Student Community
Gender Balance
Ethnic Diversity
Security Audit
Incidents
136
Burglary
20
Theft
103
Assault
5
Robbery
2
Rape
5
Arson
1
Murder
0
Financial Outlook
Total Sticker Price
$65,997
Estimated cost before aid.
Net Price By Income
Debt & Financial Aid
Repayment measured in 2016–17; this federal measure was discontinued.
Grant Aid (IPEDS 2021)
* Most students receive significant grants and scholarships, reducing the actual cost. Grant data from IPEDS Student Financial Aid survey.
Quick Overview
Faculty Ratio
N/A
Retention
97.4%
Success
96.2%
In-State Cost
$65,997
Age 25+ Students
3.0%
Carnegie Class
R1: Doctoral — Very High Research
Working at 6yr
1,162 students
Security Benchmark
Campus vs. City Comparison (Per 100k)
Violent Offenses
PER 100KProperty Crimes
PER 100KStats sourced from institutional reports and municipal data. These rates provide a standardized baseline for comparing safety across different environments.