Head-to-head · 2026
Sterling College vs Vermont State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 1 wins for Sterling College, 5 for Vermont State University — Vermont State University has more metric-level advantages.
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 | Sterling College | Vermont State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.50 | 6.91 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,854 | $18,212 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $30,573 | $50,331 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 66.7% ✓ | 81.7% |
| Graduation rate | 31.6% | 47.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $15,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 50 | 3,590 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 1 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Sterling College costs $3,642 more per year than Vermont State University ($21,854 vs $18,212). Vermont State University graduates report $19,758 higher median earnings after ten years ($50,331 vs $30,573). On EduGradify's model that puts Vermont State University ahead on projected ROI (6.91 vs 3.50, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Vermont State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Sterling College is accessible at 66.7% acceptance versus 81.7% (accessible) at Vermont State University.
Frequently asked
Sterling College vs Vermont State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Sterling College or Vermont State University the better value?
Vermont State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.91 vs 3.50), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Vermont State University is cheaper — average net price $18,212 per year vs $21,854 at Sterling College. The annual difference of $3,642 adds up to about $14,568 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Vermont State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $50,331 vs $30,573 at Sterling College. The annual gap in the federal data is $19,758.
Which school is harder to get into?
Sterling College is more selective at 66.7% acceptance vs 81.7% at Vermont 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. Sterling College reports a D value grade; Vermont State University reports C.