Head-to-head · 2026
Emporia State University vs Fort Hays State University
Compare average net price ($16,261 at Emporia State University; $12,569 at Fort Hays State University), ROI score (7.32 vs 9.73), ten-year median earnings ($47,601 vs $48,928), and admissions selectivity (97.7% acceptance at Emporia State University; 90.3% at Fort Hays State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Fort Hays State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Fort Hays 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 | Emporia State University | Fort Hays State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.32 | 9.73 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,261 | $12,569 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,601 | $48,928 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 97.7% | 90.3% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 56.1% ✓ | 47.7% |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $21,000 |
| Enrollment | 2,239 | 9,733 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1120 ✓ | 1089 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Emporia State University costs $3,692 more per year than Fort Hays State University ($16,261 vs $12,569). Fort Hays State University graduates report $1,327 higher median earnings after ten years ($48,928 vs $47,601). On EduGradify's model that puts Fort Hays State University ahead on projected ROI (9.73 vs 7.32, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Fort Hays State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Emporia State University is accessible at 97.7% acceptance versus 90.3% (accessible) at Fort Hays State University.
Frequently asked
Emporia State University vs Fort Hays State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Emporia State University or Fort Hays State University the better value?
Fort Hays State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.73 vs 7.32), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Fort Hays State University is cheaper — average net price $12,569 per year vs $16,261 at Emporia State University. The annual difference of $3,692 adds up to about $14,768 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Fort Hays State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $48,928 vs $47,601 at Emporia State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,327.
Which school is harder to get into?
Fort Hays State University is more selective at 90.3% acceptance vs 97.7% at Emporia 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. Emporia State University reports a C value grade; Fort Hays State University reports B.