Head-to-head · 2026
Fairmont State University vs Marshall University
Compare average net price ($9,032 at Fairmont State University; $7,502 at Marshall University), ROI score (12.97 vs 15.45), ten-year median earnings ($46,857 vs $46,354), and admissions selectivity (98.6% acceptance at Fairmont State University; 95.7% at Marshall University) using federal College Scorecard data. Marshall University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Marshall University 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 | Fairmont State University | Marshall University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.97 | 15.45 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $9,032 | $7,502 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,857 ✓ | $46,354 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.6% | 95.7% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 44.3% | 51.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 ✓ | $23,250 |
| Enrollment | 2,590 | 7,266 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 996 | 1061 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Fairmont State University costs $1,530 more per year than Marshall University ($9,032 vs $7,502). Fairmont State University graduates report $503 higher median earnings after ten years ($46,857 vs $46,354). On EduGradify's model that puts Marshall University ahead on projected ROI (15.45 vs 12.97, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Marshall University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Fairmont State University is accessible at 98.6% acceptance versus 95.7% (accessible) at Marshall University.
Frequently asked
Fairmont State University vs Marshall University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fairmont State University or Marshall University the better value?
Marshall University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.45 vs 12.97), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Marshall University is cheaper — average net price $7,502 per year vs $9,032 at Fairmont State University. The annual difference of $1,530 adds up to about $6,120 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Fairmont State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $46,857 vs $46,354 at Marshall University. The annual gap in the federal data is $503.
Which school is harder to get into?
Marshall University is more selective at 95.7% acceptance vs 98.6% at Fairmont 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. Fairmont State University reports a A value grade; Marshall University reports A.