Head-to-head · 2026
Arkansas State University vs University of Central Arkansas
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Arkansas State University, 3 for University of Central Arkansas — Arkansas State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Arkansas State University | University of Central Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.62 ✓ | 6.96 |
| Avg net price | $12,366 ✓ | $16,511 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $42,617 | $45,938 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 82.3% ✓ | 89.5% |
| Graduation rate | 55.4% ✓ | 53.5% |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $20,346 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,110 | 7,762 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1090 | 1118 ✓ |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Central Arkansas costs $4,145 more per year than Arkansas State University ($16,511 vs $12,366). University of Central Arkansas graduates report $3,321 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,938 vs $42,617). On EduGradify's model that puts Arkansas State University ahead on projected ROI (8.62 vs 6.96, 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 89.5% (accessible) at University of Central Arkansas.
Frequently asked
Arkansas State University vs University of Central Arkansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Arkansas State University or University of Central Arkansas the better value?
Arkansas State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.62 vs 6.96), 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 $16,511 at University of Central Arkansas. The annual difference of $4,145 adds up to about $16,580 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Central Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,938 vs $42,617 at Arkansas State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,321.
Which school is harder to get into?
Arkansas State University is more selective at 82.3% acceptance vs 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas.
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 Central Arkansas reports C.