HEAD TO HEAD · LIVE FROM IPEDS
University of Chicago vs Northwestern University
Side-by-side comparison with data from federal sources. Every metric traceable to IPEDS or College Scorecard.
SCHOOL A · PRIVATE
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
58
DECISION SCORE
vs
METRICS
SCHOOL B · PRIVATE
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
56
DECISION SCORE
01
Metric-by-metric
winner highlighted| Metric | University of Chicago | Northwestern University | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.8% | 7.1% | Northwestern University (easier) |
| Average SAT | 1540 | 1525 | University of Chicago |
| Enrollment | 21,578 | 26,993 | Northwestern University larger |
| Tuition | $64,260 | $63,468 | Northwestern University cheaper |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $82,200 | $85,400 | Northwestern University |
| Pell Grant Rate | 14.0% | 19.0% | Higher = more low-income students |
02
Decision scores
University of Chicago
Northwestern University
03
Top majors
University of Chicago
Social Sciences
36.0%
Mathematics/Statistics
9.7%
Biological Sciences
7.9%
Physical Sciences
7.0%
Computer Science
6.7%
Northwestern University
Social Sciences
20.3%
Communication
11.3%
Engineering
11.0%
Psychology
8.6%
Biological Sciences
8.5%
Which Should You Choose?
Both University of Chicago and Northwestern University are outstanding institutions. The right choice depends on your priorities:
- If location matters: University of Chicago is in Chicago, IL while Northwestern University is in Evanston, IL
- If cost is a factor: Compare net prices for your family income bracket above
- If career outcomes are the priority: Look at the salary data by major for each school
- If getting in is the concern: Check which school's acceptance rate and profile better match yours
04
Explore each school
Data source: College Scorecard, IPEDS.