Head-to-head · 2026
University of Chicago vs University of Illinois Chicago
Compare average net price ($14,860 at University of Chicago; $10,974 at University of Illinois Chicago), ROI score (15.46 vs 15.66), ten-year median earnings ($91,885 vs $68,740), and admissions selectivity (4.5% acceptance at University of Chicago; 77.4% at University of Illinois Chicago) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Chicago has a 5-2 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 | University of Chicago | University of Illinois Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 15.46 | 15.66 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,860 | $10,974 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $91,885 ✓ | $68,740 |
| Acceptance rate | 4.5% ✓ | 77.4% |
| Graduation rate | 95.9% ✓ | 61.6% |
| Median debt | $15,000 ✓ | $16,704 |
| Enrollment | 7,569 | 22,170 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1554 ✓ | 1250 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Chicago costs $3,886 more per year than University of Illinois Chicago ($14,860 vs $10,974). University of Chicago graduates report $23,145 higher median earnings after ten years ($91,885 vs $68,740). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Illinois Chicago ahead on projected ROI (15.66 vs 15.46, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Illinois Chicago) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Chicago is highly competitive at 4.5% acceptance versus 77.4% (accessible) at University of Illinois Chicago.
Frequently asked
University of Chicago vs University of Illinois Chicago, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Chicago or University of Illinois Chicago the better value?
University of Illinois Chicago has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.66 vs 15.46), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Illinois Chicago is cheaper — average net price $10,974 per year vs $14,860 at University of Chicago. The annual difference of $3,886 adds up to about $15,544 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Chicago reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $91,885 vs $68,740 at University of Illinois Chicago. The annual gap in the federal data is $23,145.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Chicago is more selective at 4.5% acceptance vs 77.4% at University of Illinois Chicago.
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. University of Chicago reports a A value grade; University of Illinois Chicago reports A.