Head-to-head · 2026
Idaho State University vs University of Idaho
Compare average net price ($12,193 at Idaho State University; $14,831 at University of Idaho), ROI score (9.35 vs 9.22), ten-year median earnings ($45,608 vs $54,670), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Idaho State University; 75.5% at University of Idaho) using federal College Scorecard data. Idaho State University has a narrow 3-2 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 | Idaho State University | University of Idaho |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.35 ✓ | 9.22 |
| Avg net price | $12,193 ✓ | $14,831 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,608 | $54,670 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 75.5% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% | 57.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,039 ✓ | $21,982 |
| Enrollment | 7,583 | 7,747 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1116 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Idaho costs $2,638 more per year than Idaho State University ($14,831 vs $12,193). University of Idaho graduates report $9,062 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,670 vs $45,608). On EduGradify's model that puts Idaho State University ahead on projected ROI (9.35 vs 9.22, 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, University of Idaho reports 75.5% acceptance; Idaho State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Idaho State University vs University of Idaho, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Idaho State University or University of Idaho the better value?
Idaho State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.35 vs 9.22), 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 $14,831 at University of Idaho. The annual difference of $2,638 adds up to about $10,552 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Idaho reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,670 vs $45,608 at Idaho State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $9,062.
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; University of Idaho reports B.