Idaho State University vs The University of Montana

Side-by-side comparison across admissions, costs, outcomes, campus life, and more. Data from US Department of Education.

πŸ’°
Best Value
The University of Montana
Lower Net Price
πŸ’Ό
High Earners
Idaho State University
Higher 10yr Salary
πŸ†
Most Selective
The University of Montana
Harder to get in
πŸŽ“
Graduation
The University of Montana
Higher success
Admissions Difficulty
Acceptance Rate
Not reported
95.6%
Avg SAT Score
Not reported
1,190
Avg ACT Score
Not reported
22
ACT Range (25th–75th)
Not reported
23 – 28
Cost & Financial Aid
Avg Net Price
$17,324
$17,118
Tuition (In-State)
$8,356
$8,152
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$27,466
$31,622
Pell Grant Rate % students receiving Pell Grants
26.8%
27.5%
Federal Loan Rate
24.8%
41.9%
Career Outcomes
Median Salary (10yr)
$45,608
$44,511
Graduation Rate
37.7%
45.9%
Retention Rate Freshmen who return for 2nd year
73.6%
76.0%
Campus Life
Total Enrollment
7,260
7,079
Undergrad Enrollment
12,121
9,160
Type
Public
Public
Setting
Urban
Urban

πŸ“‹ Report Cards

Idaho State University

Academics
C
Value
A-
Admissions
C
Diversity
C

The University of Montana

Academics
C
Value
A-
Admissions
C
Diversity
C

βš–οΈ Expert Analysis

Idaho State University and The University of Montana are both well-regarded institutions, but they differ in important ways. Here's how they compare across key dimensions.

Cost: The University of Montana offers a lower average net price at $17,118, which is $206 less than Idaho State University ($17,324). After financial aid, this can make a significant difference over 4 years.

Career Outcomes: Graduates from Idaho State University earn a median salary of $45,608 ten years after enrollment, which is $1,097 more than The University of Montana graduates ($44,511).

Graduation: The University of Montana leads with a 45.9% graduation rate, and freshman retention rates are 73.6% vs 76.0%.

Campus Size: Idaho State University is the larger campus with 7,260 total students, while The University of Montana has 7,079.

Bottom Line: The University of Montana wins on affordability while Idaho State University leads in career earnings. Your choice depends on whether upfront cost or long-term ROI matters more.

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