Head-to-head · 2026
North Idaho College vs University of Idaho
Compare average net price ($10,575 at North Idaho College; $14,831 at University of Idaho), ROI score (9.48 vs 9.22), ten-year median earnings ($40,081 vs $54,670), and admissions context (Open / not reported at North Idaho College; 75.5% at University of Idaho) using federal College Scorecard data. North Idaho College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. North Idaho College 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 | North Idaho College | University of Idaho |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.48 ✓ | 9.22 |
| Avg net price | $10,575 ✓ | $14,831 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $40,081 | $54,670 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 75.5% |
| Graduation rate | 37.5% | 57.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $9,000 ✓ | $21,982 |
| Enrollment | 2,619 | 7,747 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1116 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Idaho costs $4,256 more per year than North Idaho College ($14,831 vs $10,575). University of Idaho graduates report $14,589 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,670 vs $40,081). On EduGradify's model that puts North Idaho College ahead on projected ROI (9.48 vs 9.22, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (North Idaho College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Idaho reports 75.5% acceptance; North Idaho College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
North Idaho College vs University of Idaho, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is North Idaho College or University of Idaho the better value?
North Idaho College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.48 vs 9.22), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
North Idaho College is cheaper — average net price $10,575 per year vs $14,831 at University of Idaho. The annual difference of $4,256 adds up to about $17,024 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Idaho reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,670 vs $40,081 at North Idaho College. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,589.
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. North Idaho College reports a B value grade; University of Idaho reports B.