Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota Wesleyan University vs University of South Dakota
Compare average net price ($19,735 at Dakota Wesleyan University; $19,858 at University of South Dakota), ROI score (6.81 vs 6.54), ten-year median earnings ($53,728 vs $51,926), and admissions selectivity (73.4% acceptance at Dakota Wesleyan University; 98.8% at University of South Dakota) using federal College Scorecard data. Dakota Wesleyan University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Dakota Wesleyan 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 | Dakota Wesleyan University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.81 ✓ | 6.54 |
| Avg net price | $19,735 ✓ | $19,858 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,728 ✓ | $51,926 |
| Acceptance rate | 73.4% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 48.3% | 59.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $23,592 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 670 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1125 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Dakota costs $123 more per year than Dakota Wesleyan University ($19,858 vs $19,735). Dakota Wesleyan University graduates report $1,802 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,728 vs $51,926). On EduGradify's model that puts Dakota Wesleyan University ahead on projected ROI (6.81 vs 6.54, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Dakota Wesleyan University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Dakota Wesleyan University is accessible at 73.4% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
Dakota Wesleyan University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University or University of South Dakota the better value?
Dakota Wesleyan University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.81 vs 6.54), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Dakota Wesleyan University is cheaper — average net price $19,735 per year vs $19,858 at University of South Dakota. The annual difference of $123 adds up to about $492 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Dakota Wesleyan University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,728 vs $51,926 at University of South Dakota. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,802.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota Wesleyan University is more selective at 73.4% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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. Dakota Wesleyan University reports a C value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.