Head-to-head · 2026
Jacksonville State University vs Marion Military Institute
Compare average net price ($14,279 at Jacksonville State University; $8,627 at Marion Military Institute), ROI score (7.92 vs 17.28), ten-year median earnings ($45,235 vs $59,644), and admissions selectivity (77.7% acceptance at Jacksonville State University; 97% at Marion Military Institute) using federal College Scorecard data. Marion Military Institute has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Marion Military Institute has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus 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 | Jacksonville State University | Marion Military Institute |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.92 | 17.28 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,279 | $8,627 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,235 | $59,644 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 77.7% ✓ | 97% |
| Graduation rate | 54.7% ✓ | 36% |
| Median debt | $22,189 | $9,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,036 | 329 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1059 | 1068 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Jacksonville State University costs $5,652 more per year than Marion Military Institute ($14,279 vs $8,627). Marion Military Institute graduates report $14,409 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,644 vs $45,235). On EduGradify's model that puts Marion Military Institute ahead on projected ROI (17.28 vs 7.92, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Marion Military Institute) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Jacksonville State University is accessible at 77.7% acceptance versus 97% (accessible) at Marion Military Institute.
Frequently asked
Jacksonville State University vs Marion Military Institute, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Jacksonville State University or Marion Military Institute the better value?
Marion Military Institute has the higher EduGradify ROI score (17.28 vs 7.92), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Marion Military Institute is cheaper — average net price $8,627 per year vs $14,279 at Jacksonville State University. The annual difference of $5,652 adds up to about $22,608 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Marion Military Institute reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,644 vs $45,235 at Jacksonville State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,409.
Which school is harder to get into?
Jacksonville State University is more selective at 77.7% acceptance vs 97% at Marion Military Institute.
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. Jacksonville State University reports a B value grade; Marion Military Institute reports A+.