AdmissionsOS DePaul University vs Northern Illinois University
| DePaul University | Northern Illinois University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 76% | 70% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,140-1,330 | n/a |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 25-31 | n/a |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $30,902 | $13,391 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $63,052 | $28,851 |
| Graduation rate | 68% | 49% |
| Retention rate | 86% | 70% |
| Undergraduates | 14,090 | 11,301 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17:1 | 15:1 |
| Setting | Chicago, IL | Dekalb, IL |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Application fee | None | None |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is DePaul University or Northern Illinois University harder to get into?
Northern Illinois University is more selective, with a 70% acceptance rate versus 76% at DePaul University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, DePaul University or Northern Illinois University?
Northern Illinois University has the lower average net price ($13,391 versus $30,902). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.