Northeastern Illinois University maintains a published cost of attendance of $27,208 annually, including $12,383 in in-state tuition, $10,742 for room and board, and $2,400 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $13,550 representing savings of $13,658 from the sticker price.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $26,960 |
| Tuition and Fees | $22,726 |
| Room and Board | $10,390 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,920 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,851 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,109 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $13,709 |
| $30–48k | $12,824 |
| $48–75k | $15,077 |
| $75–110k | $20,464 |
| $110k+ | $25,001 |
Northeastern Illinois University maintains a published cost of attendance of $27,208 annually, including $12,383 in in-state tuition, $10,742 for room and board, and $2,400 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $13,550 representing savings of $13,658 from the sticker price. This net price falls slightly below the peer median of $14,093, making Northeastern Illinois University competitively affordable within its category.
The university's pricing structure reflects its public mission and commitment to serving economically diverse student populations. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $22,726, though financial aid can substantially reduce actual costs depending on family income and aid eligibility. The university's location in Chicago provides access to internship and employment opportunities that can help offset educational expenses while providing valuable work experience.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Student debt outcomes at Northeastern Illinois University reflect the institution's commitment to affordability and responsible borrowing practices. Median debt reaches $14,600, ranking at the 86th percentile nationally for low debt levels and falling $6,505 below the peer median of $21,105.
Debt distribution ranges from $4,750 at the 25th percentile to $19,743 at the 75th percentile, indicating most students graduate with manageable debt loads. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 suggests sustainable borrowing relative to post-graduation income potential.
Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $13,895 with monthly payments of $183, representing additional family investment in education. The controlled debt levels, combined with earnings beyond expectations of $19,849, create favorable conditions for post-graduation financial stability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Northeastern Illinois University represents exceptional value through the combination of controlled costs, manageable debt, and strong earnings performance relative to expectations. Students graduate with median debt of $14,600 while earning $52,234 ten years after enrollment, creating a sustainable debt-to-income relationship.
The institution's standout feature is generating $19,849 in earnings beyond expectations, ranking at the 94.2nd percentile nationally for value creation. This performance indicates that graduates achieve earnings substantially higher than predicted based on their demographic profile and institutional characteristics.
Compared to peer institutions, students pay $543 less in net costs while carrying $6,505 less debt and earning $2,118 more annually. The return on investment percentile of 78th demonstrates well above average performance in converting educational investment into long-term economic returns.
Northeastern Illinois University demonstrates strong commitment to affordability through comprehensive financial aid programs. With 53.8% of students eligible for Pell grants, the institution serves a predominantly lower-income population requiring substantial financial support.
The average financial aid package reduces costs by $13,658, representing 50.2% of the published cost of attendance. This aid concentration toward lower-income students aligns with the university's access mission and creates meaningful educational opportunities for first-generation college students.
The progressive aid structure ensures that families earning under $48,000 annually face net costs below $13,000, making higher education accessible to economically disadvantaged populations. Aid targeting effectiveness is demonstrated by the university's ability to enroll and serve majority Pell-eligible student populations while maintaining educational quality.
