Head-to-head · 2026
Independence Community College vs University of Kansas
Compare average net price ($3,265 at Independence Community College; $18,059 at University of Kansas), ROI score (26.75 vs 8.58), ten-year median earnings ($34,941 vs $61,945), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Independence Community College; 93.5% at University of Kansas) using federal College Scorecard data. Independence Community College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Independence Community College 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 | Independence Community College | University of Kansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 26.75 ✓ | 8.58 |
| Avg net price | $3,265 ✓ | $18,059 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $34,941 | $61,945 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 93.5% |
| Graduation rate | 26.3% | 68.8% ✓ |
| Median debt | $6,115 ✓ | $21,000 |
| Enrollment | 486 | 21,217 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1190 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kansas costs $14,794 more per year than Independence Community College ($18,059 vs $3,265). University of Kansas graduates report $27,004 higher median earnings after ten years ($61,945 vs $34,941). On EduGradify's model that puts Independence Community College ahead on projected ROI (26.75 vs 8.58, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Independence Community College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Kansas reports 93.5% acceptance; Independence Community College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Independence Community College vs University of Kansas, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Independence Community College or University of Kansas the better value?
Independence Community College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (26.75 vs 8.58), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Independence Community College is cheaper — average net price $3,265 per year vs $18,059 at University of Kansas. The annual difference of $14,794 adds up to about $59,176 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $61,945 vs $34,941 at Independence Community College. The annual gap in the federal data is $27,004.
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. Independence Community College reports a A+ value grade; University of Kansas reports B.