Head-to-head · 2026
Fairmont State University vs West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Compare average net price ($9,032 at Fairmont State University; $1,807 at West Virginia University at Parkersburg), ROI score (12.97 vs 48.66), ten-year median earnings ($46,857 vs $35,171), and admissions context (98.6% at Fairmont State University; Open / not reported at West Virginia University at Parkersburg) using federal College Scorecard data. West Virginia University at Parkersburg has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. West Virginia University at Parkersburg 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 | West Virginia University at Parkersburg |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.97 | 48.66 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $9,032 | $1,807 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,857 ✓ | $35,171 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.6% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 44.3% ✓ | 9.1% |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $12,570 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,590 | 1,868 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 996 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Fairmont State University costs $7,225 more per year than West Virginia University at Parkersburg ($9,032 vs $1,807). Fairmont State University graduates report $11,686 higher median earnings after ten years ($46,857 vs $35,171). On EduGradify's model that puts West Virginia University at Parkersburg ahead on projected ROI (48.66 vs 12.97, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (West Virginia University at Parkersburg) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Fairmont State University reports 98.6% acceptance; West Virginia University at Parkersburg does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Fairmont State University vs West Virginia University at Parkersburg, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fairmont State University or West Virginia University at Parkersburg the better value?
West Virginia University at Parkersburg has the higher EduGradify ROI score (48.66 vs 12.97), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
West Virginia University at Parkersburg is cheaper — average net price $1,807 per year vs $9,032 at Fairmont State University. The annual difference of $7,225 adds up to about $28,900 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Fairmont State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $46,857 vs $35,171 at West Virginia University at Parkersburg. The annual gap in the federal data is $11,686.
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; West Virginia University at Parkersburg reports A+.