Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northeastern Illinois University vs Northern Illinois University

Chicago, IL · Dekalb, IL · Source: IPEDS federal database

Northeastern Illinois UniversityNorthern Illinois University
Acceptance Rate70.4%70.5%
In-State Tuition$12,383$12,700
Out-of-State Tuition$22,726$12,700
Average Net Price$14,669$13,533
Graduation Rate17.0%50.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Northeastern Illinois University accepts 70.4% of applicants; Northern Illinois University accepts 70.5%. Tuition is close: $12,383 at Northeastern Illinois University, $12,700 at Northern Illinois University. Northeastern Illinois University graduates 17% of students in 6 years. Northern Illinois University graduates 50%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Northeastern Illinois University profileNorthern Illinois University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Northeastern Illinois University or Northern Illinois University?

Northeastern Illinois University. It accepts 70.4% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northeastern Illinois University or Northern Illinois University more affordable?

Northern Illinois University, on average. After aid, students pay $13,533/year versus $14,669/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Northern Illinois University: 50% of students finish in 6 years. Northeastern Illinois University is at 17%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Northeastern Illinois University vs Northern Illinois University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax