MyinTuition Quick Cost Estimator
This 5-minute, 6-question survey helps you anticipate college costs and provides a rough estimate of your need-based aid package.
Cost and Aid
A world-class institution can be affordable for you
Northwestern's Affordability Commitment
Our commitment to affordability begins with financial aid that meets 100% of every student’s demonstrated financial need.
Northwestern’s need-based financial aid awards do not include loans to pay back. Our goal is to eliminate debt and reduce cost as a barrier to higher education for as many students as possible, no matter your financial circumstances.
Jump to: Cost of AttendanceEstimate Your CostInternational Student Aid
100%
demonstrated need met, without loan packaging
22%
of first-year students are eligible for federal Pell Grants
<$70K
most families making less than $70K per year attend Northwestern at no cost
<$150K
most families making less than $150K per year attend Northwestern tuition-free
Loan-free
financial aid packages meet 100% of demonstrated need
I’m a first-generation college student coming from a single-parent household with three younger siblings. Northwestern’s financial aid showed me that while I was finally away from home and on my own, my dream school would support me every step of the way.”
I come from a family of four siblings who were all in college almost concurrently. Northwestern gave me an amazing opportunity to study at a world-class university without worrying about crushing debt.”
97%
of students are employed or pursuing education, service, or career development within six months of graduation
Tuition and Fees
Before you review the tuition and fees, know that the majority of undergraduates receive financial aid and do not pay this price, with over 60% of students receiving a financial aid package from Northwestern. Additionally, Northwestern does not award scholarships based on academic merit. As part of our commitment to affordability, we maximize assistance for students who otherwise would not be able to afford to attend. Last year, we spent more than $250 million on financial aid support for undergraduate students.
Tuition for the 2025–26 academic year is $69,375. Total expenses (including fees, books, housing and food, transportation expenses and transportation) are estimated at $96,236.
For more information on tuition, fees and undergraduate student budgets, see the Financial Aid Office’s Cost of Attendance page.
Estimate Your Cost
Calculate your cost in under 20 minutes.
Northwestern’s Undergraduate Financial Aid Office will not make an official offer until after a student is admitted, but you can view an early estimate by using one of the tools below.
Estimator Survey
Northwestern’s Net Price Calculator
This more detailed, 20-minute survey estimates the grants, scholarships and aid that may be available to gauge the “net price” of attendance.
Application Fee Waiver
Our application fee should not pose a barrier for any student who wishes to apply. If paying the application fee would cause a hardship for you and your family, we encourage you to request a waiver.
40%
of applicants qualify for application fee waivers