Head-to-head · 2026
Carl Sandburg College vs Trinity International University-Illinois
Compare average net price ($3,662 at Carl Sandburg College; $2,835 at Trinity International University-Illinois), ROI score (24.08 vs 41.44), ten-year median earnings ($35,274 vs $46,989), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Carl Sandburg College; 100% at Trinity International University-Illinois) using federal College Scorecard data. Trinity International University-Illinois has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Trinity International University-Illinois has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Carl Sandburg College | Trinity International University-Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 24.08 | 41.44 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $3,662 | $2,835 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $35,274 | $46,989 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 100% |
| Graduation rate | 50% ✓ | 46.1% |
| Median debt | $4,909 ✓ | $26,082 |
| Enrollment | 1,051 | 55 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Carl Sandburg College costs $827 more per year than Trinity International University-Illinois ($3,662 vs $2,835). Trinity International University-Illinois graduates report $11,715 higher median earnings after ten years ($46,989 vs $35,274). On EduGradify's model that puts Trinity International University-Illinois ahead on projected ROI (41.44 vs 24.08, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Trinity International University-Illinois) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Trinity International University-Illinois reports 100% acceptance; Carl Sandburg College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Carl Sandburg College vs Trinity International University-Illinois, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Carl Sandburg College or Trinity International University-Illinois the better value?
Trinity International University-Illinois has the higher EduGradify ROI score (41.44 vs 24.08), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Trinity International University-Illinois is cheaper — average net price $2,835 per year vs $3,662 at Carl Sandburg College. The annual difference of $827 adds up to about $3,308 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Trinity International University-Illinois reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $46,989 vs $35,274 at Carl Sandburg College. The annual gap in the federal data is $11,715.
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. Carl Sandburg College reports a A+ value grade; Trinity International University-Illinois reports A+.