Head-to-head · 2026
Augustana University vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Augustana University, 3 for University of South Dakota — Augustana 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 | Augustana University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.20 | 6.54 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $23,894 | $19,858 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,217 ✓ | $51,926 |
| Acceptance rate | 67.8% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 73% ✓ | 59.9% |
| Median debt | $25,000 | $23,592 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,965 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1195 ✓ | 1125 |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Augustana University costs $4,036 more per year than University of South Dakota ($23,894 vs $19,858). Augustana University graduates report $7,291 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,217 vs $51,926). On EduGradify's model that puts University of South Dakota ahead on projected ROI (6.54 vs 6.20, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of South Dakota) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Augustana University is accessible at 67.8% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
Augustana University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Augustana University or University of South Dakota the better value?
University of South Dakota has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.54 vs 6.20), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of South Dakota is cheaper — average net price $19,858 per year vs $23,894 at Augustana University. The annual difference of $4,036 adds up to about $16,144 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Augustana University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,217 vs $51,926 at University of South Dakota. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,291.
Which school is harder to get into?
Augustana University is more selective at 67.8% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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. Augustana University reports a C value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.