Head-to-head · 2026
Indiana State University vs Indiana University-Bloomington
Compare average net price ($10,873 at Indiana State University; $16,264 at Indiana University-Bloomington), ROI score (11.13 vs 9.80), ten-year median earnings ($48,387 vs $63,742), and admissions selectivity (80.8% acceptance at Indiana State University; 78.2% at Indiana University-Bloomington) using federal College Scorecard data. Indiana University-Bloomington has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Indiana 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 | Indiana State University | Indiana University-Bloomington |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.13 ✓ | 9.80 |
| Avg net price | $10,873 ✓ | $16,264 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,387 | $63,742 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 80.8% | 78.2% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 42.9% | 80.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,000 | $19,509 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 6,188 | 37,806 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1313 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Indiana University-Bloomington costs $5,391 more per year than Indiana State University ($16,264 vs $10,873). Indiana University-Bloomington graduates report $15,355 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,742 vs $48,387). On EduGradify's model that puts Indiana State University ahead on projected ROI (11.13 vs 9.80, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Indiana State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Indiana State University is accessible at 80.8% acceptance versus 78.2% (accessible) at Indiana University-Bloomington.
Frequently asked
Indiana State University vs Indiana University-Bloomington, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Indiana State University or Indiana University-Bloomington the better value?
Indiana State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.13 vs 9.80), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Indiana State University is cheaper — average net price $10,873 per year vs $16,264 at Indiana University-Bloomington. The annual difference of $5,391 adds up to about $21,564 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Indiana University-Bloomington reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,742 vs $48,387 at Indiana State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $15,355.
Which school is harder to get into?
Indiana University-Bloomington is more selective at 78.2% acceptance vs 80.8% at Indiana 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. Indiana State University reports a A value grade; Indiana University-Bloomington reports B.