Head-to-head · 2026
Truman State University vs Washington University in St Louis
Compare average net price ($12,780 at Truman State University; $21,786 at Washington University in St Louis), ROI score (11.01 vs 9.89), ten-year median earnings ($56,280 vs $86,182), and admissions selectivity (83.8% acceptance at Truman State University; 12.1% at Washington University in St Louis) using federal College Scorecard data. Washington University in St Louis has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Truman 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 | Truman State University | Washington University in St Louis |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.01 ✓ | 9.89 |
| Avg net price | $12,780 ✓ | $21,786 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $56,280 | $86,182 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 83.8% | 12.1% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 68.5% | 94.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $17,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,513 | 7,857 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1320 | 1530 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washington University in St Louis costs $9,006 more per year than Truman State University ($21,786 vs $12,780). Washington University in St Louis graduates report $29,902 higher median earnings after ten years ($86,182 vs $56,280). On EduGradify's model that puts Truman State University ahead on projected ROI (11.01 vs 9.89, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Truman State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Truman State University is accessible at 83.8% acceptance versus 12.1% (highly competitive) at Washington University in St Louis.
Frequently asked
Truman State University vs Washington University in St Louis, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Truman State University or Washington University in St Louis the better value?
Truman State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.01 vs 9.89), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Truman State University is cheaper — average net price $12,780 per year vs $21,786 at Washington University in St Louis. The annual difference of $9,006 adds up to about $36,024 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washington University in St Louis reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $86,182 vs $56,280 at Truman State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $29,902.
Which school is harder to get into?
Washington University in St Louis is more selective at 12.1% acceptance vs 83.8% at Truman 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. Truman State University reports a A value grade; Washington University in St Louis reports B.