Head-to-head · 2026
Colby College vs University of Southern Maine
Compare average net price ($17,180 at Colby College; $13,596 at University of Southern Maine), ROI score (11.71 vs 9.19), ten-year median earnings ($80,490 vs $49,958), and admissions selectivity (7.1% acceptance at Colby College; 79.2% at University of Southern Maine) using federal College Scorecard data. Colby College has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Colby 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 | Colby College | University of Southern Maine |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.71 ✓ | 9.19 |
| Avg net price | $17,180 | $13,596 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $80,490 ✓ | $49,958 |
| Acceptance rate | 7.1% ✓ | 79.2% |
| Graduation rate | 88.8% ✓ | 40.4% |
| Median debt | $19,157 | $19,060 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,407 | 4,222 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1501 ✓ | 1116 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Colby College costs $3,584 more per year than University of Southern Maine ($17,180 vs $13,596). Colby College graduates report $30,532 higher median earnings after ten years ($80,490 vs $49,958). On EduGradify's model that puts Colby College ahead on projected ROI (11.71 vs 9.19, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Colby College) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Colby College is highly competitive at 7.1% acceptance versus 79.2% (accessible) at University of Southern Maine.
Frequently asked
Colby College vs University of Southern Maine, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Colby College or University of Southern Maine the better value?
Colby College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.71 vs 9.19), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Southern Maine is cheaper — average net price $13,596 per year vs $17,180 at Colby College. The annual difference of $3,584 adds up to about $14,336 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Colby College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $80,490 vs $49,958 at University of Southern Maine. The annual gap in the federal data is $30,532.
Which school is harder to get into?
Colby College is more selective at 7.1% acceptance vs 79.2% at University of Southern Maine.
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. Colby College reports a A value grade; University of Southern Maine reports B.