Head-to-head · 2026
Northern State University vs South Dakota State University
Compare average net price ($15,812 at Northern State University; $19,841 at South Dakota State University), ROI score (7.53 vs 6.94), ten-year median earnings ($47,618 vs $55,070), and admissions selectivity (93% acceptance at Northern State University; 98.3% at South Dakota State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Northern State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Northern 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 | Northern State University | South Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.53 ✓ | 6.94 |
| Avg net price | $15,812 ✓ | $19,841 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,618 | $55,070 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 93% ✓ | 98.3% |
| Graduation rate | 48.9% | 62.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,320 ✓ | $23,250 |
| Enrollment | 1,273 | 9,198 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1089 | 1120 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
South Dakota State University costs $4,029 more per year than Northern State University ($19,841 vs $15,812). South Dakota State University graduates report $7,452 higher median earnings after ten years ($55,070 vs $47,618). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern State University ahead on projected ROI (7.53 vs 6.94, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Northern State University is accessible at 93% acceptance versus 98.3% (accessible) at South Dakota State University.
Frequently asked
Northern State University vs South Dakota State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Northern State University or South Dakota State University the better value?
Northern State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.53 vs 6.94), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern State University is cheaper — average net price $15,812 per year vs $19,841 at South Dakota State University. The annual difference of $4,029 adds up to about $16,116 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $55,070 vs $47,618 at Northern State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,452.
Which school is harder to get into?
Northern State University is more selective at 93% acceptance vs 98.3% at South Dakota 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. Northern State University reports a B value grade; South Dakota State University reports C.