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Western Illinois University and Northeastern Illinois University are both public institutions — Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL and Northeastern Illinois 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.
Macomb, IL · Public
Acceptance rate: 71.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,410
Tuition: $15,264/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 45.2%
Top programs: Security and law enforcement, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Macomb, IL with published program strength in Security and law enforcement and Business and marketing.
Chicago, IL · Public
Acceptance rate: 74.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,982
Tuition: $22,726/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 21.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Computer science, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Chicago, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Computer science.
| Factor | Western Illinois University | Northeastern Illinois University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 71.2% | 74.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 4,410 | 3,982 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $15,264/year | $22,726/year |
| Average net price after aid | $12,937 | $14,109 |
| Graduation rate | 45.2% | 21.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $54,163 | $52,234 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Macomb, IL | Chicago, IL |
| Largest program areas | Security and law enforcement, Business and marketing, Education | Business and marketing, Computer science, Education |
Western Illinois University is more selective (71.2% vs 74.6% acceptance rate). Western Illinois University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($12,937 vs $14,109). Western Illinois University reports the higher graduation rate (45.2% vs 21.6%). Western Illinois University is the larger undergraduate campus (4,410 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 Western Illinois University and Northeastern Illinois University
Western Illinois University has an acceptance rate of 71.2%; Northeastern Illinois University is around 74.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Western Illinois University tuition is $15,264/year. Northeastern Illinois University is $22,726/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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