Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Abilene, TX & Jacksonville, IL
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Illinois College, they're comparing two private institutions that should deliver similar outcomes based on their profiles. Both are business-focused schools serving similar-sized student bodies.
But the data reveals a striking difference in institutional effectiveness: ACU graduates earn $18,627 beyond demographic predictions while Illinois College falls $3,384 short of expectations. This gap persists despite ACU serving a significantly more challenging student population with 60% Pell grant recipients.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,565
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$22,975
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly business-focused, with ACU producing 27% of graduates in business fields and Illinois College at 29%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), alongside Business Administration (59).
Illinois College's top programs center on Business Administration (51), Psychology (33), and Biology (23). While program mixes are similar, ACU offers nursing and kinesiology pathways that Illinois College lacks, potentially contributing to different career trajectories and earning potential for graduates.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and value, ACU delivers superior outcomes at $5,231/year less cost. The school's ability to generate $18,627 in earnings beyond expectations while serving 60% Pell recipients demonstrates exceptional institutional performance.
Illinois College offers a small liberal arts environment in Illinois for students who value that setting, but falls short of earnings predictions despite serving a more advantaged student population. The data strongly favors ACU for financial value and institutional effectiveness.
If you're choosing based on outcomes and affordability, ACU is the clear winner.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
