Head-to-head · 2026
Boise State University vs Idaho State University
Compare average net price ($21,610 at Boise State University; $12,193 at Idaho State University), ROI score (5.98 vs 9.35), ten-year median earnings ($51,658 vs $45,608), and admissions context (87.2% at Boise State University; Open / not reported at Idaho State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Idaho State University has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Idaho 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 | Boise State University | Idaho State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 5.98 | 9.35 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,610 | $12,193 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $51,658 ✓ | $45,608 |
| Acceptance rate | 87.2% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 60.2% ✓ | 39.4% |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $20,039 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 17,674 | 7,583 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Boise State University costs $9,417 more per year than Idaho State University ($21,610 vs $12,193). Boise State University graduates report $6,050 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,658 vs $45,608). On EduGradify's model that puts Idaho State University ahead on projected ROI (9.35 vs 5.98, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Idaho State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Boise State University reports 87.2% acceptance; Idaho State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Boise State University vs Idaho State University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Boise State University or Idaho State University the better value?
Idaho State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.35 vs 5.98), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Idaho State University is cheaper — average net price $12,193 per year vs $21,610 at Boise State University. The annual difference of $9,417 adds up to about $37,668 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Boise State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,658 vs $45,608 at Idaho State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,050.
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. Boise State University reports a C value grade; Idaho State University reports B.