Head-to-head · 2026
Minot State University vs North Dakota State University-Main Campus
Compare average net price ($12,703 at Minot State University; $15,543 at North Dakota State University-Main Campus), ROI score (10.19 vs 10.00), ten-year median earnings ($51,759 vs $62,203), and admissions selectivity (64.6% acceptance at Minot State University; 95% at North Dakota State University-Main Campus) using federal College Scorecard data. Minot State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Minot 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 | Minot State University | North Dakota State University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.19 ✓ | 10.00 |
| Avg net price | $12,703 ✓ | $15,543 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $51,759 | $62,203 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 64.6% ✓ | 95% |
| Graduation rate | 45.1% | 63.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,609 ✓ | $23,199 |
| Enrollment | 2,062 | 9,471 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1051 | 1150 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
North Dakota State University-Main Campus costs $2,840 more per year than Minot State University ($15,543 vs $12,703). North Dakota State University-Main Campus graduates report $10,444 higher median earnings after ten years ($62,203 vs $51,759). On EduGradify's model that puts Minot State University ahead on projected ROI (10.19 vs 10.00, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Minot State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Minot State University is accessible at 64.6% acceptance versus 95% (accessible) at North Dakota State University-Main Campus.
Frequently asked
Minot State University vs North Dakota State University-Main Campus, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Minot State University or North Dakota State University-Main Campus the better value?
Minot State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.19 vs 10.00), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Minot State University is cheaper — average net price $12,703 per year vs $15,543 at North Dakota State University-Main Campus. The annual difference of $2,840 adds up to about $11,360 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
North Dakota State University-Main Campus reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $62,203 vs $51,759 at Minot State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,444.
Which school is harder to get into?
Minot State University is more selective at 64.6% acceptance vs 95% at North Dakota State University-Main Campus.
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. Minot State University reports a B value grade; North Dakota State University-Main Campus reports B.

