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 • Lisle, IL & Lake Forest, IL
When students choose between Lake Forest College and Benedictine University, they're comparing two small private colleges in Illinois with similar missions but different track records. Both emphasize business programs and serve comparable student populations.
However, the graduation data reveals a critical difference: Lake Forest graduates 70% of its students while Benedictine graduates just 51%. For families investing in a degree, completion rates matter more than sticker price.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$22,500
federal loans
$26,158
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$22,900
borrowed by parents
$35,000
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused institutions, though with different concentrations. Lake Forest has a more balanced program mix: 21% Business, 12% Social Sciences, 7% Arts.
Top programs include Business/Commerce (55 graduates), Communication (30), and Finance (29). Benedictine is more heavily concentrated in business at 31%, with Nursing (97 graduates) and Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (88) as standout programs alongside Psychology (78) and Business (75).
This health sciences strength helps explain Benedictine's career outcomes.
For students prioritizing degree completion, Lake Forest College delivers superior graduation rates that justify its higher cost. The 19-percentage-point completion advantage means significantly more students actually earn degrees and reach career earnings.
Benedictine University offers lower costs and similar outcomes for those who complete — making it the better choice for highly motivated students who can manage the weaker institutional support systems. The data points to Lake Forest as the stronger overall value, but individual student preparedness and motivation matter greatly.
If you need strong institutional support to succeed, Lake Forest is worth the premium.
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.
