Head-to-head · 2026
College of Southern Idaho vs Idaho State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for College of Southern Idaho, 2 for Idaho State University — College of Southern Idaho has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | College of Southern Idaho | Idaho State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 16.78 ✓ | 9.35 |
| Avg net price | $6,095 ✓ | $12,193 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $40,916 | $45,608 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 33.2% | 39.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $8,000 ✓ | $20,039 |
| Enrollment | 3,810 | 7,583 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Idaho State University costs $6,098 more per year than College of Southern Idaho ($12,193 vs $6,095). Idaho State University graduates report $4,692 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,608 vs $40,916). On EduGradify's model that puts College of Southern Idaho ahead on projected ROI (16.78 vs 9.35, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (College of Southern Idaho) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, neither school reports a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data, so this matchup should lean on price, outcomes and fit instead.
Frequently asked
College of Southern Idaho vs Idaho State University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is College of Southern Idaho or Idaho State University the better value?
College of Southern Idaho has the higher EduGradify ROI score (16.78 vs 9.35), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
College of Southern Idaho is cheaper — average net price $6,095 per year vs $12,193 at Idaho State University. The annual difference of $6,098 adds up to about $24,392 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Idaho State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,608 vs $40,916 at College of Southern Idaho. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,692.
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. College of Southern Idaho reports a A+ value grade; Idaho State University reports B.