PrivateUrbanNorthwestern University
Evanston, Illinois 60208
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Among the most selective in the Northeast — top graduate earnings
Northwestern University is a private institution in Evanston with particular strength in engineering and biology. With an average SAT of 1526, the school attracts a competitive applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 9K undergraduates with a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
96% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $89,363 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $27,143.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — just months
History & Fun Facts
- •On January 28, 1851, the Illinois General Assembly granted a charter to the Trustees of the North-Western University, making it the first chartered university in Illinois.
- •The first building, Old College, opened on November 5, 1855.
- •In 1873 Evanston College for Ladies merged with Northwestern.
Source: Wikipedia
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1526
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
81.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.4%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$14,000
Programs (330)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
97%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
66
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from IL state average + city premium
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Days out near Evanston
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Chicago 3, from real bookable tour times.
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