Head-to-head · 2026
Indiana University-Northwest vs Indiana University-South Bend
Compare average net price ($5,130 at Indiana University-Northwest; $8,653 at Indiana University-South Bend), ROI score (21.13 vs 12.99), ten-year median earnings ($43,361 vs $44,947), and admissions selectivity (73.4% acceptance at Indiana University-Northwest; 83.8% at Indiana University-South Bend) using federal College Scorecard data. Indiana University-South Bend has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Indiana University-Northwest leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Indiana University-Northwest | Indiana University-South Bend |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 21.13 ✓ | 12.99 |
| Avg net price | $5,130 ✓ | $8,653 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $43,361 | $44,947 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 73.4% ✓ | 83.8% |
| Graduation rate | 37.4% | 40.1% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,710 | $21,355 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,661 | 3,933 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1055 | 1081 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Indiana University-South Bend costs $3,523 more per year than Indiana University-Northwest ($8,653 vs $5,130). Indiana University-South Bend graduates report $1,586 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,947 vs $43,361). On EduGradify's model that puts Indiana University-Northwest ahead on projected ROI (21.13 vs 12.99, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Indiana University-Northwest) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Indiana University-Northwest is accessible at 73.4% acceptance versus 83.8% (accessible) at Indiana University-South Bend.
Frequently asked
Indiana University-Northwest vs Indiana University-South Bend, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Indiana University-Northwest or Indiana University-South Bend the better value?
Indiana University-Northwest has the higher EduGradify ROI score (21.13 vs 12.99), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Indiana University-Northwest is cheaper — average net price $5,130 per year vs $8,653 at Indiana University-South Bend. The annual difference of $3,523 adds up to about $14,092 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Indiana University-South Bend reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,947 vs $43,361 at Indiana University-Northwest. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,586.
Which school is harder to get into?
Indiana University-Northwest is more selective at 73.4% acceptance vs 83.8% at Indiana University-South Bend.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Indiana University-Northwest reports a A+ value grade; Indiana University-South Bend reports A.