North Central College
The Vibe Check
North Central College feels like a tight-knit community where professors know your name and Chicago is just a train ride away. The campus buzzes with Division III athletics and a strong emphasis on experiential learning, creating a classic yet modern liberal arts atmosphere.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
North Central excels in business, psychology, and the visual and performing arts, supported by a strong emphasis on undergraduate research through programs like RALLI (Research and Learning in Leadership). The college prioritizes hands-on learning and internships, ensuring students are career-ready upon graduation.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Naperville
Naperville offers a vibrant downtown with the Riverwalk, a variety of restaurants, and shops, all within walking distance of campus. Students enjoy easy access to Chicago via the Metra train, which is about a 30-minute ride for weekend trips to museums, concerts, and city attractions.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($60,123):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a safe, affluent suburb with a low crime rate. NCC has its own campus safety department with 24/7 patrols and emergency call stations throughout the campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong internship and study abroad programs integrated into the curriculum.
- ✓ Prime location in Naperville offers suburban safety with easy Chicago access.
- ✓ Division III athletics with a spirited campus community.
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible professors.
Cons
- ✗ High sticker price for tuition and fees.
- ✗ Limited graduate program offerings compared to larger universities.
- ✗ Campus is in a suburban area, so a car or train is needed for big-city amenities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
North Central College is known for its strong programs in business, psychology, and the visual and performing arts. It is also recognized for its commitment to experiential learning, study abroad opportunities, and a vibrant campus community centered around Division III athletics.
North Central College has an acceptance rate of 58.31%, making it moderately selective. While not as competitive as top-tier universities, applicants should aim for a strong academic record with an average SAT score around 1165 to increase their chances of admission and merit-based financial aid.
Campus life is active and community-focused, with a retention rate of 81.7%, indicating high student satisfaction. Students enjoy a mix of Division III sports, student organizations, and easy access to Naperville's downtown and Chicago via the Metra train.
With an average net price of $23,033 and a 10-year median earnings of $60,123, North Central College offers a solid return on investment. The strong graduation rate and access to internships in the Chicago area further enhance the value of the degree.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,510
- In-State Tuition $44,394
- Zip Code 60540
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
While the sticker price is high at over $44,000, the average net price of $23,033 makes it more accessible for many families. The 10-year median earnings of $60,123 and a solid graduation rate suggest a positive return on investment, especially for students who leverage the strong alumni network.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.