Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northwestern University vs University of Chicago

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

Northwestern UniversityUniversity of Chicago
Acceptance Rate7.2%4.8%
In-State Tuition$65,997$66,939
Out-of-State Tuition$65,997$66,939
Average Net Price$8,070$18,167
Graduation Rate96.0%95.0%

GradFax Analysis

Northwestern University accepts 7.2% of applicants. University of Chicago accepts 4.8%. Tuition is close: $65,997 at Northwestern University, $66,939 at University of Chicago. Six-year graduation rates are close: 96% at Northwestern University, 95% at University of Chicago.

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 University profileUniversity of Chicago profile

Common Questions

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

University of Chicago. It accepts 4.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northwestern University or University of Chicago more affordable?

Northwestern University has lower published tuition: $65,997 versus $66,939. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. Northwestern University is at 96%; University of Chicago is at 95%.

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 University vs University of Chicago: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax