Head-to-head · 2026
University of Sioux Falls vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for University of Sioux Falls, 2 for University of South Dakota — University of Sioux Falls 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 | University of Sioux Falls | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.37 | 6.54 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,383 | $19,858 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $54,521 ✓ | $51,926 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.9% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 62.9% ✓ | 59.9% |
| Median debt | $23,249 ✓ | $23,592 |
| Enrollment | 1,218 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1125 |
| Wins | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Sioux Falls costs $1,525 more per year than University of South Dakota ($21,383 vs $19,858). University of Sioux Falls graduates report $2,595 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,521 vs $51,926). On EduGradify's model that puts University of South Dakota ahead on projected ROI (6.54 vs 6.37, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of South Dakota) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Sioux Falls is accessible at 82.9% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
University of Sioux Falls vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Sioux Falls or University of South Dakota the better value?
University of South Dakota has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.54 vs 6.37), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of South Dakota is cheaper — average net price $19,858 per year vs $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls. The annual difference of $1,525 adds up to about $6,100 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Sioux Falls reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,521 vs $51,926 at University of South Dakota. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,595.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Sioux Falls is more selective at 82.9% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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 Sioux Falls reports a C value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.