Head-to-head · 2026
Fairmont State University vs Shepherd University
Compare average net price ($9,032 at Fairmont State University; $11,363 at Shepherd University), ROI score (12.97 vs 10.86), ten-year median earnings ($46,857 vs $49,358), and admissions selectivity (98.6% acceptance at Fairmont State University; 96.8% at Shepherd University) using federal College Scorecard data. Shepherd University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Fairmont State 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 | Shepherd University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.97 ✓ | 10.86 |
| Avg net price | $9,032 ✓ | $11,363 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,857 | $49,358 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 98.6% | 96.8% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 44.3% | 51% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 ✓ | $21,600 |
| Enrollment | 2,590 | 2,344 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 996 | 1034 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Shepherd University costs $2,331 more per year than Fairmont State University ($11,363 vs $9,032). Shepherd University graduates report $2,501 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,358 vs $46,857). On EduGradify's model that puts Fairmont State University ahead on projected ROI (12.97 vs 10.86, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Fairmont State 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 96.8% (accessible) at Shepherd University.
Frequently asked
Fairmont State University vs Shepherd University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fairmont State University or Shepherd University the better value?
Fairmont State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.97 vs 10.86), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Fairmont State University is cheaper — average net price $9,032 per year vs $11,363 at Shepherd University. The annual difference of $2,331 adds up to about $9,324 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Shepherd University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,358 vs $46,857 at Fairmont State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,501.
Which school is harder to get into?
Shepherd University is more selective at 96.8% 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; Shepherd University reports A.