Head-to-head · 2026
Northwestern University vs University of Chicago
Compare average net price ($29,167 at Northwestern University; $14,860 at University of Chicago), ROI score (7.66 vs 15.46), ten-year median earnings ($89,363 vs $91,885), and admissions selectivity (7.7% acceptance at Northwestern University; 4.5% at University of Chicago) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Chicago has a 6-0 metric-level edge. University of Chicago has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Northwestern University | University of Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.66 | 15.46 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $29,167 | $14,860 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $89,363 | $91,885 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 7.7% | 4.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 95.1% | 95.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Enrollment | 9,201 | 7,569 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1533 | 1554 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Northwestern University costs $14,307 more per year than University of Chicago ($29,167 vs $14,860). University of Chicago graduates report $2,522 higher median earnings after ten years ($91,885 vs $89,363). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Chicago ahead on projected ROI (15.46 vs 7.66, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Chicago) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Northwestern University is highly competitive at 7.7% acceptance versus 4.5% (highly competitive) at University of Chicago.
Frequently asked
Northwestern University vs University of Chicago, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Northwestern University or University of Chicago the better value?
University of Chicago has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.46 vs 7.66), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Chicago is cheaper — average net price $14,860 per year vs $29,167 at Northwestern University. The annual difference of $14,307 adds up to about $57,228 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Chicago reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $91,885 vs $89,363 at Northwestern University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,522.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Chicago is more selective at 4.5% acceptance vs 7.7% at Northwestern University.
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. Northwestern University reports a B value grade; University of Chicago reports A.