Head-to-head · 2026
Oglala Lakota College vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Oglala Lakota College, 2 for University of South Dakota — even split.
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 | Oglala Lakota College | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 29.71 ✓ | 6.54 |
| Avg net price | $1,895 ✓ | $19,858 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $22,517 | $51,926 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 8.7% | 59.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | — | $23,592 |
| Enrollment | 1,097 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1125 |
| Wins | 2 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Dakota costs $17,963 more per year than Oglala Lakota College ($19,858 vs $1,895). University of South Dakota graduates report $29,409 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,926 vs $22,517). On EduGradify's model that puts Oglala Lakota College ahead on projected ROI (29.71 vs 6.54, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Oglala Lakota College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of South Dakota reports 98.8% acceptance; Oglala Lakota College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Oglala Lakota College vs University of South Dakota, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Oglala Lakota College or University of South Dakota the better value?
Oglala Lakota College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (29.71 vs 6.54), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Oglala Lakota College is cheaper — average net price $1,895 per year vs $19,858 at University of South Dakota. The annual difference of $17,963 adds up to about $71,852 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Dakota reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,926 vs $22,517 at Oglala Lakota College. The annual gap in the federal data is $29,409.
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. Oglala Lakota College reports a A+ value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.