Academic Comparison between Northeastern Illinois and Illinois State

Northeastern Illinois University and Illinois State University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public and located in Illinois

Comparison at a Glance

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

  • Both schools are four-year, public schools.
  • Illinois State has more expensive tuition & fees ($26,058) than Northeastern Illinois ($22,726).
  • It is harder to admit to Northeastern Illinois than Illinois State.
  • Illinois State has more students with 21,546 students while Northeastern Illinois has 5,734 students.
  • Northeastern Illinois has a lower number of students per faculty with 9 to 1 while Illinois State's ratio is 19 to 1.
  • Illinois State has more full-time faculties with 907 faculties while Northeastern Illinois has 250 full-time faculties.
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Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Northeastern Illinois Universityvs.Illinois State University
Chicago, IllinoisLocationNormal, Illinois
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Public
Master's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Master's College and University (larger programs)Carnegie ClassificationResearch University (high research activity)
In-State$12,383
Out-Of-State$22,726
2025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$14,410
Out-Of-State$26,058
73%% Receiving Financial Aid83%
$10,449Average Amount of Financial Aid$12,056
74.60 %Acceptance Rates88.15 %
8.49 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)22.53 %
-SAT Score1,100
-ACT Score24
22 %Graduation Rate65 %
-Transfer-out Rate-
52 %Retention Rate81 %
5,734Student Population21,546
250Number of Faculties907
9 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio19 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare