Head-to-head · 2026
Metropolitan State University vs Saint Cloud State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Metropolitan State University, 4 for Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud State University 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 | Metropolitan State University | Saint Cloud State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.59 | 10.31 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,863 | $13,529 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $64,705 ✓ | $55,813 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.7% | 94.8% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 43.6% ✓ | 40.3% |
| Median debt | $17,100 ✓ | $21,058 |
| Enrollment | 5,616 | 5,088 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1020 | 1092 ✓ |
| Wins | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University costs $3,334 more per year than Saint Cloud State University ($16,863 vs $13,529). Metropolitan State University graduates report $8,892 higher median earnings after ten years ($64,705 vs $55,813). On EduGradify's model that puts Saint Cloud State University ahead on projected ROI (10.31 vs 9.59, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Saint Cloud State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Metropolitan State University is accessible at 98.7% acceptance versus 94.8% (accessible) at Saint Cloud State University.
Frequently asked
Metropolitan State University vs Saint Cloud State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Metropolitan State University or Saint Cloud State University the better value?
Saint Cloud State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.31 vs 9.59), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Saint Cloud State University is cheaper — average net price $13,529 per year vs $16,863 at Metropolitan State University. The annual difference of $3,334 adds up to about $13,336 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Metropolitan State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $64,705 vs $55,813 at Saint Cloud State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $8,892.
Which school is harder to get into?
Saint Cloud State University is more selective at 94.8% acceptance vs 98.7% at Metropolitan 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. Metropolitan State University reports a B value grade; Saint Cloud State University reports B.