Head-to-head · 2026
University of Kansas vs Wichita State University
Compare average net price ($18,059 at University of Kansas; $13,194 at Wichita State University), ROI score (8.58 vs 9.76), ten-year median earnings ($61,945 vs $51,532), and admissions selectivity (93.5% acceptance at University of Kansas; 94% at Wichita State University) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Kansas has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Wichita 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 | University of Kansas | Wichita State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.58 | 9.76 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $18,059 | $13,194 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $61,945 ✓ | $51,532 |
| Acceptance rate | 93.5% ✓ | 94% |
| Graduation rate | 68.8% ✓ | 51% |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 21,217 | 10,780 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1190 ✓ | 1092 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kansas costs $4,865 more per year than Wichita State University ($18,059 vs $13,194). University of Kansas graduates report $10,413 higher median earnings after ten years ($61,945 vs $51,532). On EduGradify's model that puts Wichita State University ahead on projected ROI (9.76 vs 8.58, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Wichita State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Kansas is accessible at 93.5% acceptance versus 94% (accessible) at Wichita State University.
Frequently asked
University of Kansas vs Wichita State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Kansas or Wichita State University the better value?
Wichita State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.76 vs 8.58), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Wichita State University is cheaper — average net price $13,194 per year vs $18,059 at University of Kansas. The annual difference of $4,865 adds up to about $19,460 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $61,945 vs $51,532 at Wichita State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,413.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Kansas is more selective at 93.5% acceptance vs 94% at Wichita 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. University of Kansas reports a B value grade; Wichita State University reports B.