Head-to-head · 2026
Arkansas State University vs University of Arkansas
Compare average net price ($12,366 at Arkansas State University; $18,209 at University of Arkansas), ROI score (8.62 vs 7.99), ten-year median earnings ($42,617 vs $58,191), and admissions selectivity (82.3% acceptance at Arkansas State University; 74.3% at University of Arkansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arkansas has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Arkansas State University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Arkansas State University | University of Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.62 ✓ | 7.99 |
| Avg net price | $12,366 ✓ | $18,209 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $42,617 | $58,191 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 82.3% | 74.3% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 55.4% | 70.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $21,500 |
| Enrollment | 9,110 | 28,677 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1090 | 1169 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Arkansas costs $5,843 more per year than Arkansas State University ($18,209 vs $12,366). University of Arkansas graduates report $15,574 higher median earnings after ten years ($58,191 vs $42,617). On EduGradify's model that puts Arkansas State University ahead on projected ROI (8.62 vs 7.99, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Arkansas State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Arkansas State University is accessible at 82.3% acceptance versus 74.3% (accessible) at University of Arkansas.
Frequently asked
Arkansas State University vs University of Arkansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Arkansas State University or University of Arkansas the better value?
Arkansas State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.62 vs 7.99), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Arkansas State University is cheaper — average net price $12,366 per year vs $18,209 at University of Arkansas. The annual difference of $5,843 adds up to about $23,372 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $58,191 vs $42,617 at Arkansas State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $15,574.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Arkansas is more selective at 74.3% acceptance vs 82.3% at Arkansas State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Arkansas State University reports a B value grade; University of Arkansas reports B.