Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northwestern College vs Upper Iowa University

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

Northwestern CollegeUpper Iowa University
Acceptance Rate87.0%93.4%
In-State Tuition$35,300$19,000
Out-of-State Tuition$35,300$19,000
Average Net Price$12,791$6,959
Graduation Rate64.0%41.0%

GradFax Analysis

Northwestern College accepts 87.0% of applicants. Upper Iowa University accepts 93.4%. Northwestern College's tuition is $35,300. Upper Iowa University's is $19,000. Upper Iowa University is cheaper. Northwestern College graduates 64% of students in 6 years. Upper Iowa University 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 profileUpper Iowa University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Northwestern College or Upper Iowa University?

Northwestern College. It accepts 87.0% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northwestern College or Upper Iowa University more affordable?

Upper Iowa University has lower published tuition: $19,000 versus $35,300. 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. Upper Iowa University 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 Upper Iowa University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax