Head-to-head · 2026
Nicholls State University vs University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Compare average net price ($12,947 at Nicholls State University; $13,530 at University of Louisiana at Lafayette), ROI score (8.78 vs 8.70), ten-year median earnings ($45,454 vs $47,089), and admissions selectivity (90.8% acceptance at Nicholls State University; 87% at University of Louisiana at Lafayette) using federal College Scorecard data. Nicholls State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. The ROI scores are close, so aid letters, program fit, graduation rate and debt should decide the better 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 | Nicholls State University | University of Louisiana at Lafayette |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.78 ✓ | 8.70 |
| Avg net price | $12,947 ✓ | $13,530 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,454 | $47,089 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 90.8% | 87% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 53.8% ✓ | 52.6% |
| Median debt | $22,675 ✓ | $22,902 |
| Enrollment | 4,737 | 12,428 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1090 | 1219 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Louisiana at Lafayette costs $583 more per year than Nicholls State University ($13,530 vs $12,947). University of Louisiana at Lafayette graduates report $1,635 higher median earnings after ten years ($47,089 vs $45,454). On EduGradify's model that puts Nicholls State University ahead on projected ROI (8.78 vs 8.70, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Nicholls State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Nicholls State University is accessible at 90.8% acceptance versus 87% (accessible) at University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Frequently asked
Nicholls State University vs University of Louisiana at Lafayette, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Nicholls State University or University of Louisiana at Lafayette the better value?
Nicholls State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.78 vs 8.70), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Nicholls State University is cheaper — average net price $12,947 per year vs $13,530 at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The annual difference of $583 adds up to about $2,332 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Louisiana at Lafayette reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $47,089 vs $45,454 at Nicholls State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,635.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Louisiana at Lafayette is more selective at 87% acceptance vs 90.8% at Nicholls 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. Nicholls State University reports a B value grade; University of Louisiana at Lafayette reports B.