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Northwestern University

633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, USA

Northwestern University award
Northwestern University award
US ranking
position: 19
Tuition & fees per year: $70,589
Acceptance rate: 7.00%
Median alumni salary: $73,331
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1520 SAT, 35 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Very hard

What is the cost of studying for a year at Northwestern University?

The cost of attending Northwestern University is considerably high compared to average annual expenses at other U. S. institutions. Full-time undergraduate tuition alone amounts to $64,887, a figure that ranks in the top 5% nationwide for expense levels. When combined with fees averaging $1,110, the total for tuition and fees reaches $65,997, still within the very high cost bracket.

Room and board expenses contribute significantly to the total cost, with charges estimated at $21,975 per year, also placing Northwestern among the top 5% in terms of pricing. Additional costs for books and supplies average $1,539, categorized as high and ranking in the top 30% for these expenses.

Altogether, tuition, fees, room, and board push the overall annual cost of studying at Northwestern University to approximately $70,589. This total far surpasses the average costs at public and private institutions across the United States. For context, the average annual total for students at private non-profit four-year colleges is about $54,501, while out-of-state students at four-year public colleges pay an average of $44,014.

Graduate tuition at Northwestern remains similarly elevated, with full-time students facing tuition fees of $52,698 and average fees around $1,173, both classified as very high and in the top 5% nationally. Part-time rates for both undergraduate and graduate students are also notably high, exceeding $7,600 per credit hour.

Given these figures, prospective students should prepare for costs that are substantially higher than national averages, reflecting Northwestern University's position as a prestigious and selective institution with associated tuition and living expenses.

What are the work-study opportunities at Northwestern University?

Northwestern University offers a variety of work-study opportunities aimed at supporting students' financial needs while providing valuable professional experience. Students eligible for federal work-study can secure part-time positions both on-campus and in community service roles, allowing them to earn money during the academic year. The average compensation for student workers aligns with federal minimum wage standards, though specific wages vary depending on the job and departmental funding.

The university maintains a diverse array of on-campus employment options, including jobs within academic departments, libraries, administrative offices, and campus facilities. These positions enable students to develop workplace skills while balancing their coursework. Additionally, Northwestern encourages participation in internships, some of which may be paid and related to students' fields of study, further enhancing professional development.

Regarding international students, Northwestern University recognizes the unique employment restrictions placed on non-U. S. citizens and offers guidance to help these students navigate permissible work opportunities. While federal work-study itself is generally not available to international students, the university facilitates access to on-campus jobs and internships that comply with visa regulations, enabling international students to gain work experience during their studies.

Northwestern University Tuition and Fees

Avg. tuition and fees $70,589
Tuition and fees
Avg. room and board charges $21,975
Room and board charges
Avg. books and supplies $1,539
Books and supplies

Total Cost

Avg. total cost $94,103
Total average cost of education at the institution, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies

Northwestern University Room and Board Cost

Institution provide on-campus housing

Yes

Institution provides board or meal plan

Data not available

Northwestern University Tuition Plans

Any alternative tuition plans offered by institution

Data not available

Tuition guaranteed plan

Data not available

Prepaid tuition plan

Data not available

Northwestern University Financial Aid

Undergraduate average amount

$57,927

All

$64,463

Number of Students Receiving Financial Aid

61 %

Northwestern University Military and Veterans Benefits

Undergraduate average amount

$33,652

Graduate average amount

$27,311