Head-to-head · 2026
Clayton State University vs Georgia Southwestern State University
Compare average net price ($8,365 at Clayton State University; $12,019 at Georgia Southwestern State University), ROI score (14.70 vs 10.14), ten-year median earnings ($49,179 vs $48,757), and admissions selectivity (68.5% acceptance at Clayton State University; 75.2% at Georgia Southwestern State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Clayton State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Clayton State University 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 | Clayton State University | Georgia Southwestern State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 14.70 ✓ | 10.14 |
| Avg net price | $8,365 ✓ | $12,019 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $49,179 ✓ | $48,757 |
| Acceptance rate | 68.5% ✓ | 75.2% |
| Graduation rate | 39.9% | 40.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $25,706 | $18,851 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 4,348 | 2,424 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 958 | 978 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Georgia Southwestern State University costs $3,654 more per year than Clayton State University ($12,019 vs $8,365). Clayton State University graduates report $422 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,179 vs $48,757). On EduGradify's model that puts Clayton State University ahead on projected ROI (14.70 vs 10.14, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Clayton State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Clayton State University is accessible at 68.5% acceptance versus 75.2% (accessible) at Georgia Southwestern State University.
Frequently asked
Clayton State University vs Georgia Southwestern State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Clayton State University or Georgia Southwestern State University the better value?
Clayton State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.70 vs 10.14), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Clayton State University is cheaper — average net price $8,365 per year vs $12,019 at Georgia Southwestern State University. The annual difference of $3,654 adds up to about $14,616 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Clayton State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,179 vs $48,757 at Georgia Southwestern State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $422.
Which school is harder to get into?
Clayton State University is more selective at 68.5% acceptance vs 75.2% at Georgia Southwestern State University.
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. Clayton State University reports a A value grade; Georgia Southwestern State University reports B.