Head-to-head · 2026
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus vs University of the Ozarks
Compare average net price ($14,027 at Southern Arkansas University Main Campus; $17,360 at University of the Ozarks), ROI score (7.55 vs 6.39), ten-year median earnings ($42,386 vs $44,384), and admissions selectivity (75.3% acceptance at Southern Arkansas University Main Campus; 59.5% at University of the Ozarks) using federal College Scorecard data. University of the Ozarks has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Southern Arkansas University Main Campus 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 | Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | University of the Ozarks |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.55 ✓ | 6.39 |
| Avg net price | $14,027 ✓ | $17,360 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $42,386 | $44,384 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 75.3% | 59.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 48.8% | 51.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,750 ✓ | $20,875 |
| Enrollment | 2,708 | 767 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1047 | 1105 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of the Ozarks costs $3,333 more per year than Southern Arkansas University Main Campus ($17,360 vs $14,027). University of the Ozarks graduates report $1,998 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,384 vs $42,386). On EduGradify's model that puts Southern Arkansas University Main Campus ahead on projected ROI (7.55 vs 6.39, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Southern Arkansas University Main Campus) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Southern Arkansas University Main Campus is accessible at 75.3% acceptance versus 59.5% (accessible) at University of the Ozarks.
Frequently asked
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus vs University of the Ozarks, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Southern Arkansas University Main Campus or University of the Ozarks the better value?
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.55 vs 6.39), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus is cheaper — average net price $14,027 per year vs $17,360 at University of the Ozarks. The annual difference of $3,333 adds up to about $13,332 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of the Ozarks reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,384 vs $42,386 at Southern Arkansas University Main Campus. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,998.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of the Ozarks is more selective at 59.5% acceptance vs 75.3% at Southern Arkansas 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. Southern Arkansas University Main Campus reports a B value grade; University of the Ozarks reports C.