College Comparison
Northwestern University vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Evanston, IL
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
23,856
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
4.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1510–1570
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
49,474
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$61,179
Room & Board
$21,126
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$91,885
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Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. University of Chicago is $8,176 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $64,429. At University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago graduates. Graduates from University of Chicago tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

