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Illinois Wesleyan University and Chicago State University are both private nonprofit institutions — Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, IL and Chicago State University in Chicago, IL. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Bloomington, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: 39.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,582
Tuition: $57,704/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 74.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Bloomington, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Chicago, IL · Public
Acceptance rate: 43.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,384
Tuition: $12,754/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 15.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Chicago, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
| Factor | Illinois Wesleyan University | Chicago State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 39.3% | 43.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1120–1340 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25–30 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,582 | 1,384 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $57,704/year | $12,754/year |
| Average net price after aid | $28,199 | $12,335 |
| Graduation rate | 74.7% | 15.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $70,871 | $42,778 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Bloomington, IL | Chicago, IL |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Health professions | Business and marketing, Psychology, Education |
Illinois Wesleyan University is more selective (39.3% vs 43.3% acceptance rate). Chicago State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($12,335 vs $28,199). Illinois Wesleyan University reports the higher graduation rate (74.7% vs 15.5%). Illinois Wesleyan University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,582 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Illinois Wesleyan University and Chicago State University
Illinois Wesleyan University has an acceptance rate of 39.3%; Chicago State University is around 43.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Illinois Wesleyan University tuition is $57,704/year. Chicago State University is $12,754/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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