Head-to-head · 2026
University of Arkansas vs University of Central Arkansas
Compare average net price ($18,209 at University of Arkansas; $16,511 at University of Central Arkansas), ROI score (7.99 vs 6.96), ten-year median earnings ($58,191 vs $45,938), and admissions selectivity (74.3% acceptance at University of Arkansas; 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arkansas has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of Arkansas 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 | University of Arkansas | University of Central Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.99 ✓ | 6.96 |
| Avg net price | $18,209 | $16,511 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $58,191 ✓ | $45,938 |
| Acceptance rate | 74.3% ✓ | 89.5% |
| Graduation rate | 70.5% ✓ | 53.5% |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $20,346 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 28,677 | 7,762 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1169 ✓ | 1118 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Arkansas costs $1,698 more per year than University of Central Arkansas ($18,209 vs $16,511). University of Arkansas graduates report $12,253 higher median earnings after ten years ($58,191 vs $45,938). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Arkansas ahead on projected ROI (7.99 vs 6.96, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Arkansas) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Arkansas is accessible at 74.3% acceptance versus 89.5% (accessible) at University of Central Arkansas.
Frequently asked
University of Arkansas vs University of Central Arkansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Arkansas or University of Central Arkansas the better value?
University of Arkansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.99 vs 6.96), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Central Arkansas is cheaper — average net price $16,511 per year vs $18,209 at University of Arkansas. The annual difference of $1,698 adds up to about $6,792 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $58,191 vs $45,938 at University of Central Arkansas. The annual gap in the federal data is $12,253.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Arkansas is more selective at 74.3% acceptance vs 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas.
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. University of Arkansas reports a B value grade; University of Central Arkansas reports C.