Cost Details
- In-State Tuition
- $65,997
- Out-of-State Tuition
- $65,997
- Average Net Price
- $27,143
- Students Receiving Financial Aid
- 18.7%
- Room & Board (On Campus)
- $20,334
- Room & Board (Off Campus)
- $20,334
- Books & Supplies
- $1,686
- Total Cost of Attendance
- $88,017
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $15,000
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $159/mo
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 87.0%
- Students Taking Federal Loans
- 18.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 18.7%
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education
| Family Income | Average Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 – $30,000 | $1,243 |
| $30,001 – $48,000 | $3,373 |
| $48,001 – $75,000 | $6,485 |
| $75,001 – $110,000 | $14,059 |
| $110,001+ | $48,837 |
Cost Estimator
Cost Overview
Most Northwestern families pay far less than the $88,017 sticker price. The average net cost drops to $27,143 after aid. Families earning under $30,000 pay just $1,243 annually, while those making $75,000-$110,000 face $14,059 per year. Even high earners above $110,000 typically pay $48,837, saving nearly $40,000 from the full cost. Over four years, middle-class families can expect to invest roughly $56,000-$112,000 depending on income.
Northwestern keeps debt surprisingly manageable for an top private university. Graduates carry a median debt of $15,000, translating to monthly payments around $159. With median earnings hitting $89,363 within ten years, that payment represents less than 3% of income. The 87% loan repayment rate reflects strong career outcomes. Low-income students get the best financial deal here, attending for free while gaining access to Northwestern's powerful alumni network and Big Ten connections.
Northwestern keeps debt surprisingly manageable for an top private university. Graduates carry a median debt of $15,000, translating to monthly payments around $159. With median earnings hitting $89,363 within ten years, that payment represents less than 3% of income. The 87% loan repayment rate reflects strong career outcomes. Low-income students get the best financial deal here, attending for free while gaining access to Northwestern's powerful alumni network and Big Ten connections.
Official Net Price Calculator
Get a personalized cost estimate from Northwestern University:
Visit Official Net Price CalculatorThis links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.