Head-to-head · 2026
Chadron State College vs University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Compare average net price ($12,549 at Chadron State College; $17,747 at University of Nebraska-Lincoln), ROI score (9.36 vs 8.01), ten-year median earnings ($47,002 vs $56,887), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Chadron State College; 87.5% at University of Nebraska-Lincoln) using federal College Scorecard data. Chadron State College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Chadron State College 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 | Chadron State College | University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.36 ✓ | 8.01 |
| Avg net price | $12,549 ✓ | $17,747 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,002 | $56,887 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 87.5% |
| Graduation rate | 50.4% | 67% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,875 ✓ | $21,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,540 | 19,178 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1191 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Nebraska-Lincoln costs $5,198 more per year than Chadron State College ($17,747 vs $12,549). University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates report $9,885 higher median earnings after ten years ($56,887 vs $47,002). On EduGradify's model that puts Chadron State College ahead on projected ROI (9.36 vs 8.01, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Chadron State College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Nebraska-Lincoln reports 87.5% acceptance; Chadron State College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Chadron State College vs University of Nebraska-Lincoln, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Chadron State College or University of Nebraska-Lincoln the better value?
Chadron State College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.36 vs 8.01), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Chadron State College is cheaper — average net price $12,549 per year vs $17,747 at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The annual difference of $5,198 adds up to about $20,792 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $56,887 vs $47,002 at Chadron State College. The annual gap in the federal data is $9,885.
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. Chadron State College reports a B value grade; University of Nebraska-Lincoln reports B.