Head-to-head · 2026
Idaho State University vs Lewis-Clark State College
Compare average net price ($12,193 at Idaho State University; $15,635 at Lewis-Clark State College), ROI score (9.35 vs 7.36), ten-year median earnings ($45,608 vs $46,001), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Idaho State University; 87.7% at Lewis-Clark State College) using federal College Scorecard data. Lewis-Clark State College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Idaho 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 | Idaho State University | Lewis-Clark State College |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.35 ✓ | 7.36 |
| Avg net price | $12,193 ✓ | $15,635 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,608 | $46,001 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 87.7% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% | 40.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,039 | $18,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,583 | 2,385 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Lewis-Clark State College costs $3,442 more per year than Idaho State University ($15,635 vs $12,193). Lewis-Clark State College graduates report $393 higher median earnings after ten years ($46,001 vs $45,608). On EduGradify's model that puts Idaho State University ahead on projected ROI (9.35 vs 7.36, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Idaho State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Lewis-Clark State College reports 87.7% acceptance; Idaho State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Idaho State University vs Lewis-Clark State College, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Idaho State University or Lewis-Clark State College the better value?
Idaho State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.35 vs 7.36), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Idaho State University is cheaper — average net price $12,193 per year vs $15,635 at Lewis-Clark State College. The annual difference of $3,442 adds up to about $13,768 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Lewis-Clark State College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $46,001 vs $45,608 at Idaho State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $393.
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. Idaho State University reports a B value grade; Lewis-Clark State College reports C.