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College Comparison

Northwestern University vs University of Chicago

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Northwestern University
#20
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Private
University of Chicago
#12
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
Private
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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Northwestern is in Evanston, IL

Chicago is in Chicago, IL

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Frequently Asked Questions

Northwestern University has an acceptance rate of 8%, while University of Chicago has an acceptance rate of 4%. This means University of Chicago is more selective than Northwestern University.

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.