Head-to-head · 2026
University of Maine vs University of Southern Maine
Compare average net price ($17,510 at University of Maine; $13,596 at University of Southern Maine), ROI score (6.95 vs 9.19), ten-year median earnings ($48,653 vs $49,958), and admissions selectivity (96.6% acceptance at University of Maine; 79.2% at University of Southern Maine) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Southern Maine has a 5-1 metric-level edge. University of Southern Maine has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 Maine | University of Southern Maine |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.95 | 9.19 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $17,510 | $13,596 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,653 | $49,958 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.6% | 79.2% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 54.9% ✓ | 40.4% |
| Median debt | $25,000 | $19,060 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 8,496 | 4,222 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1116 |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Maine costs $3,914 more per year than University of Southern Maine ($17,510 vs $13,596). University of Southern Maine graduates report $1,305 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,958 vs $48,653). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Southern Maine ahead on projected ROI (9.19 vs 6.95, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Southern Maine) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Maine is accessible at 96.6% acceptance versus 79.2% (accessible) at University of Southern Maine.
Frequently asked
University of Maine vs University of Southern Maine, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Maine or University of Southern Maine the better value?
University of Southern Maine has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.19 vs 6.95), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Southern Maine is cheaper — average net price $13,596 per year vs $17,510 at University of Maine. The annual difference of $3,914 adds up to about $15,656 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Southern Maine reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,958 vs $48,653 at University of Maine. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,305.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Southern Maine is more selective at 79.2% acceptance vs 96.6% at University of Maine.
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 Maine reports a C value grade; University of Southern Maine reports B.