Head-to-head · 2026
Saint Xavier University vs University of Illinois Chicago
Compare average net price ($10,970 at Saint Xavier University; $10,974 at University of Illinois Chicago), ROI score (13.37 vs 15.66), ten-year median earnings ($58,656 vs $68,740), and admissions selectivity (84.3% acceptance at Saint Xavier University; 77.4% at University of Illinois Chicago) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Illinois Chicago has a 5-1 metric-level edge. University of Illinois Chicago 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 | Saint Xavier University | University of Illinois Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 13.37 | 15.66 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $10,970 ✓ | $10,974 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $58,656 | $68,740 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 84.3% | 77.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 56.6% | 61.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,223 | $16,704 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,096 | 22,170 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1250 |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Illinois Chicago costs $4 more per year than Saint Xavier University ($10,974 vs $10,970). University of Illinois Chicago graduates report $10,084 higher median earnings after ten years ($68,740 vs $58,656). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Illinois Chicago ahead on projected ROI (15.66 vs 13.37, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Illinois Chicago) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Saint Xavier University is accessible at 84.3% acceptance versus 77.4% (accessible) at University of Illinois Chicago.
Frequently asked
Saint Xavier University vs University of Illinois Chicago, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Saint Xavier University or University of Illinois Chicago the better value?
University of Illinois Chicago has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.66 vs 13.37), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Saint Xavier University is cheaper — average net price $10,970 per year vs $10,974 at University of Illinois Chicago. The annual difference of $4 adds up to about $16 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Illinois Chicago reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $68,740 vs $58,656 at Saint Xavier University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,084.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Illinois Chicago is more selective at 77.4% acceptance vs 84.3% at Saint Xavier 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. Saint Xavier University reports a A value grade; University of Illinois Chicago reports A.