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University of Chicago and Northwestern University are both private nonprofit institutions — University of Chicago in Chicago, IL and Northwestern University in Evanston, 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.
Chicago, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: 4.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,569
Tuition: $70,662/year
Student-faculty ratio: 5.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.9%
Top programs: Social sciences, Mathematics, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Chicago, IL with published program strength in Social sciences and Mathematics.
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.
| Factor | University of Chicago | Northwestern University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 4.5% | 7.7% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1510–1580 |
| 1510–1570 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–35 | 33–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,569 | 9,201 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $70,662/year | $68,322/year |
| Average net price after aid | $14,860 | $29,167 |
| Graduation rate | 95.9% | 95.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $91,885 | $89,363 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 5.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Chicago, IL | Evanston, IL |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Mathematics, Computer science | Social sciences, Communication, Engineering |
University of Chicago is more selective (4.5% vs 7.7% acceptance rate). University of Chicago has a lower average net price after grant aid ($14,860 vs $29,167). Both report a similar graduation rate (95.9%). 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 University of Chicago and Northwestern University
University of Chicago has an acceptance rate of 4.5%; Northwestern University is around 7.7%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of Chicago tuition is $70,662/year. Northwestern University is $68,322/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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