Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Southwest Minnesota State University vs University of Minnesota-Rochester

Marshall, MN · Rochester, MN · Source: IPEDS federal database

Southwest Minnesota State UniversityUniversity of Minnesota-Rochester
Acceptance Rate68.9%71.8%
In-State Tuition$10,304$14,400
Out-of-State Tuition$10,304$14,400
Average Net Price$14,839$13,840
Graduation Rate44.0%57.0%

GradFax Analysis

Southwest Minnesota State University accepts 68.9% of applicants. University of Minnesota-Rochester accepts 71.8%. Southwest Minnesota State University's in-state tuition is $10,304. University of Minnesota-Rochester's is $14,400. Southwest Minnesota State University is cheaper. Southwest Minnesota State University graduates 44% of students in 6 years. University of Minnesota-Rochester graduates 57%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Southwest Minnesota State University profileUniversity of Minnesota-Rochester profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Southwest Minnesota State University or University of Minnesota-Rochester?

Southwest Minnesota State University. It accepts 68.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Southwest Minnesota State University or University of Minnesota-Rochester more affordable?

University of Minnesota-Rochester, on average. After aid, students pay $13,840/year versus $14,839/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

University of Minnesota-Rochester: 57% of students finish in 6 years. Southwest Minnesota State University is at 44%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Southwest Minnesota State University vs University of Minnesota-Rochester: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax