Head-to-head · 2026
John Brown University vs University of Central Arkansas
Compare average net price ($20,397 at John Brown University; $16,511 at University of Central Arkansas), ROI score (6.61 vs 6.96), ten-year median earnings ($53,907 vs $45,938), and admissions selectivity (76.1% acceptance at John Brown University; 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas) using federal College Scorecard data. John Brown University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Central Arkansas 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 | John Brown University | University of Central Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.61 | 6.96 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $20,397 | $16,511 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,907 ✓ | $45,938 |
| Acceptance rate | 76.1% ✓ | 89.5% |
| Graduation rate | 71.8% ✓ | 53.5% |
| Median debt | $21,250 | $20,346 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,471 | 7,762 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1195 ✓ | 1118 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
John Brown University costs $3,886 more per year than University of Central Arkansas ($20,397 vs $16,511). John Brown University graduates report $7,969 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,907 vs $45,938). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Central Arkansas ahead on projected ROI (6.96 vs 6.61, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Central Arkansas) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, John Brown University is accessible at 76.1% acceptance versus 89.5% (accessible) at University of Central Arkansas.
Frequently asked
John Brown University vs University of Central Arkansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is John Brown University or University of Central Arkansas the better value?
University of Central Arkansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.96 vs 6.61), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Central Arkansas is cheaper — average net price $16,511 per year vs $20,397 at John Brown University. The annual difference of $3,886 adds up to about $15,544 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
John Brown University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,907 vs $45,938 at University of Central Arkansas. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,969.
Which school is harder to get into?
John Brown University is more selective at 76.1% acceptance vs 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas.
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. John Brown University reports a C value grade; University of Central Arkansas reports C.