Northwestern University: Is It Worth It?
Evanston, Illinois · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
6.7
Net Price/Year
$29,167
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$89,363
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$15,000
at graduation
Is Northwestern University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $89,363 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $29,167 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $116,668.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.3 years.
The median graduate leaves with $15,000 in debt, which represents about 17%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
Avg SAT
1533
ACT Midpoint
35
Enrollment
9,201
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
95.5%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
98.1%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
204100.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$68,322
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
Avg Net Price
$29,167
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northwestern University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Northwestern University graduates earn a median of $89,363 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $15,000 at graduation. The ROI score is 6.7.
What do Northwestern University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates is $76,844 six years after enrollment and $89,363 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Northwestern University?
The acceptance rate at Northwestern University is 7.7%.
How much debt do Northwestern University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Northwestern University students is $15,000.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.