Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northwestern College vs University of Dubuque

Orange City, IA · Dubuque, IA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Northwestern CollegeUniversity of Dubuque
Acceptance Rate87.0%86.9%
In-State Tuition$35,300$40,065
Out-of-State Tuition$35,300$40,065
Average Net Price$12,791$15,692
Graduation Rate64.0%41.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Northwestern College accepts 87.0% of applicants; University of Dubuque accepts 86.9%. Northwestern College's tuition is $35,300. University of Dubuque's is $40,065. Northwestern College is cheaper. Northwestern College graduates 64% of students in 6 years. University of Dubuque graduates 41%.

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 →Northwestern College profileUniversity of Dubuque profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Northwestern College or University of Dubuque?

University of Dubuque. It accepts 86.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northwestern College or University of Dubuque more affordable?

Northwestern College has lower published tuition: $35,300 versus $40,065. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Northwestern College: 64% of students finish in 6 years. University of Dubuque is at 41%.

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.

Northwestern College vs University of Dubuque: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax