Head-to-head · 2026
Brown University vs University of Rhode Island
Compare average net price ($25,184 at Brown University; $21,440 at University of Rhode Island), ROI score (9.28 vs 8.13), ten-year median earnings ($93,487 vs $69,743), and admissions selectivity (5.4% acceptance at Brown University; 72.2% at University of Rhode Island) using federal College Scorecard data. Brown University has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Brown 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 | Brown University | University of Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.28 ✓ | 8.13 |
| Avg net price | $25,184 | $21,440 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $93,487 ✓ | $69,743 |
| Acceptance rate | 5.4% ✓ | 72.2% |
| Graduation rate | 95.7% ✓ | 73.3% |
| Median debt | $11,428 ✓ | $22,250 |
| Enrollment | 7,226 | 13,381 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1546 ✓ | 1160 |
| Metric advantages | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Brown University costs $3,744 more per year than University of Rhode Island ($25,184 vs $21,440). Brown University graduates report $23,744 higher median earnings after ten years ($93,487 vs $69,743). On EduGradify's model that puts Brown University ahead on projected ROI (9.28 vs 8.13, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Brown University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Brown University is highly competitive at 5.4% acceptance versus 72.2% (accessible) at University of Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Brown University vs University of Rhode Island, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Brown University or University of Rhode Island the better value?
Brown University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.28 vs 8.13), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Rhode Island is cheaper — average net price $21,440 per year vs $25,184 at Brown University. The annual difference of $3,744 adds up to about $14,976 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Brown University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $93,487 vs $69,743 at University of Rhode Island. The annual gap in the federal data is $23,744.
Which school is harder to get into?
Brown University is more selective at 5.4% acceptance vs 72.2% at University of Rhode Island.
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. Brown University reports a B value grade; University of Rhode Island reports B.