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Northwestern University and Principia College are both private nonprofit institutions — Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and Principia College in Elsah, 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.
Evanston, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: 7.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 9,201
Tuition: $68,322/year
Student-faculty ratio: 6.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.1%
Top programs: Social sciences, Communication, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Evanston, IL with published program strength in Social sciences and Communication.
Elsah, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: Not reported
Undergrad enrollment: 339
Tuition: $34,680/year
Student-faculty ratio: 6.0:1
Graduation rate: 74.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Elsah, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
| Factor | Northwestern University | Principia College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7.7% | Not reported |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1510–1570 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–35 | 25 average |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 9,201 | 339 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $68,322/year | $34,680/year |
| Average net price after aid | $29,167 | Not reported |
| Graduation rate | 95.1% | 74.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $89,363 | Not reported |
| Student-faculty ratio | 6.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Evanston, IL | Elsah, IL |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Communication, Engineering | Business and marketing, Education, Biological sciences |
Northwestern University reports the higher graduation rate (95.1% vs 74.3%). Northwestern University is the larger undergraduate campus (9,201 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 Northwestern University and Principia College
Northwestern University has an acceptance rate of 7.7%; Principia College is around Not reported. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Northwestern University tuition is $68,322/year. Principia College is $34,680/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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