Frequently Asked Questions

In 2026-27 tuition costs $39,000, and housing, food and fees cost $11,870 on average for a total of $50,870. No student pays that amount, however, because 100% of students receive financial aid. So Northwestern's actual cost is different for every student. In 2026-27, students’ average out-of-pocket cost after financial aid is $17,570.

Housing and food costs on average $11,870 per year. Exact cost depends on which residence hall you live in.

While each student’s textboox costs will be different, you can plan for your books, supplies and other classroom items to cost around $1,150/year.

Of those Northwestern students who graduate with debt, their average is $34,664, which is similar to the loan debt for other college and university graduates across Iowa, including graduates of the state universities.

Scholarships, grants, loans and workstudy all can be part of a financial aid offer that helps lower your out-of-pocket college cost. Northwestern students, on average, receive $33,300 in scholarship, grant and loan aid that lowers their out-of-pocket cost to $17,570. Northwestern offers two payment options: You can either pay each semester’s tuition in full before classes start or sign up for a monthly payment plan.

Northwestern students, parents and alumni say Northwestern College is worth the cost. NWC’s graduate placement rate is 100%, and beyond their career and graduate school success, NWC grads say their experience has prepared them to stand out in ways that honor God and serve others.

Northwestern’s costs compare favorably with other private colleges and even with state universities once financial aid is offered and bottom-line costs are evaluated.