Head-to-head · 2026
Arkansas State University vs University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Compare average net price ($12,366 at Arkansas State University; $10,574 at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith), ROI score (8.62 vs 9.72), ten-year median earnings ($42,617 vs $41,102), and admissions selectivity (82.3% acceptance at Arkansas State University; 80.5% at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith 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-Fort Smith |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.62 | 9.72 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $12,366 | $10,574 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $42,617 ✓ | $41,102 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.3% | 80.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 55.4% ✓ | 37.9% |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $18,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,110 | 4,091 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1090 ✓ | 1050 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Arkansas State University costs $1,792 more per year than University of Arkansas-Fort Smith ($12,366 vs $10,574). Arkansas State University graduates report $1,515 higher median earnings after ten years ($42,617 vs $41,102). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Arkansas-Fort Smith ahead on projected ROI (9.72 vs 8.62, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Arkansas-Fort Smith) 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 80.5% (accessible) at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.
Frequently asked
Arkansas State University vs University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Arkansas State University or University of Arkansas-Fort Smith the better value?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.72 vs 8.62), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is cheaper — average net price $10,574 per year vs $12,366 at Arkansas State University. The annual difference of $1,792 adds up to about $7,168 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Arkansas State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $42,617 vs $41,102 at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,515.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is more selective at 80.5% 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-Fort Smith reports B.