Head-to-head · 2026
Kansas State University vs University of Kansas
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Kansas State University, 5 for University of Kansas — University of Kansas has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Kansas State University | University of Kansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.38 | 8.58 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $19,406 | $18,059 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $57,262 | $61,945 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 81.7% ✓ | 93.5% |
| Graduation rate | 71.1% ✓ | 68.8% |
| Median debt | $21,250 | $21,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 15,142 | 21,217 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1151 | 1190 ✓ |
| Wins | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Kansas State University costs $1,347 more per year than University of Kansas ($19,406 vs $18,059). University of Kansas graduates report $4,683 higher median earnings after ten years ($61,945 vs $57,262). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Kansas ahead on projected ROI (8.58 vs 7.38, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Kansas) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Kansas State University is accessible at 81.7% acceptance versus 93.5% (accessible) at University of Kansas.
Frequently asked
Kansas State University vs University of Kansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Kansas State University or University of Kansas the better value?
University of Kansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.58 vs 7.38), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Kansas is cheaper — average net price $18,059 per year vs $19,406 at Kansas State University. The annual difference of $1,347 adds up to about $5,388 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $61,945 vs $57,262 at Kansas State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,683.
Which school is harder to get into?
Kansas State University is more selective at 81.7% acceptance vs 93.5% at University of Kansas.
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. Kansas State University reports a C value grade; University of Kansas reports B.