Head-to-head · 2026
Idaho State University vs Northwest Nazarene University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Idaho State University, 2 for Northwest Nazarene University — Idaho State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Idaho State University | Northwest Nazarene University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.35 ✓ | 4.37 |
| Avg net price | $12,193 ✓ | $29,580 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,608 | $51,719 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 64.7% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% | 70.8% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,039 ✓ | $23,750 |
| Enrollment | 7,583 | 1,024 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | 1130 |
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Northwest Nazarene University costs $17,387 more per year than Idaho State University ($29,580 vs $12,193). Northwest Nazarene University graduates report $6,111 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,719 vs $45,608). On EduGradify's model that puts Idaho State University ahead on projected ROI (9.35 vs 4.37, 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, Northwest Nazarene University reports 64.7% acceptance; Idaho State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Idaho State University vs Northwest Nazarene University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Idaho State University or Northwest Nazarene University the better value?
Idaho State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.35 vs 4.37), 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 $29,580 at Northwest Nazarene University. The annual difference of $17,387 adds up to about $69,548 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Northwest Nazarene University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,719 vs $45,608 at Idaho State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,111.
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; Northwest Nazarene University reports D.