Head-to-head · 2026
Fort Hays State University vs Wichita State University
Compare average net price ($12,569 at Fort Hays State University; $13,194 at Wichita State University), ROI score (9.73 vs 9.76), ten-year median earnings ($48,928 vs $51,532), and admissions selectivity (90.3% acceptance at Fort Hays State University; 94% at Wichita State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Wichita State University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. The ROI scores are close, so aid letters, program fit, graduation rate and debt should decide the better 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 | Fort Hays State University | Wichita State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.73 | 9.76 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $12,569 ✓ | $13,194 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,928 | $51,532 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 90.3% ✓ | 94% |
| Graduation rate | 47.7% | 51% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,733 | 10,780 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1089 | 1092 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Wichita State University costs $625 more per year than Fort Hays State University ($13,194 vs $12,569). Wichita State University graduates report $2,604 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,532 vs $48,928). On EduGradify's model that puts Wichita State University ahead on projected ROI (9.76 vs 9.73, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Wichita State University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Fort Hays State University is accessible at 90.3% acceptance versus 94% (accessible) at Wichita State University.
Frequently asked
Fort Hays State University vs Wichita State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fort Hays State University or Wichita State University the better value?
Wichita State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.76 vs 9.73), 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 $13,194 at Wichita State University. The annual difference of $625 adds up to about $2,500 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Wichita State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,532 vs $48,928 at Fort Hays State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,604.
Which school is harder to get into?
Fort Hays State University is more selective at 90.3% acceptance vs 94% at Wichita 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. Fort Hays State University reports a B value grade; Wichita State University reports B.