Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Southwest Minnesota State University vs University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

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

Southwest Minnesota State UniversityUniversity of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Acceptance Rate68.9%77.0%
In-State Tuition$10,304$16,488
Out-of-State Tuition$10,304$36,402
Average Net Price$14,839$16,730
Graduation Rate44.0%85.0%

GradFax Analysis

Southwest Minnesota State University accepts 68.9% of applicants. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities accepts 77.0%. Southwest Minnesota State University's in-state tuition is $10,304. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities's is $16,488. Southwest Minnesota State University is cheaper. Southwest Minnesota State University graduates 44% of students in 6 years. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduates 85%.

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-Twin Cities profile

Common Questions

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

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

Source: IPEDS

Is Southwest Minnesota State University or University of Minnesota-Twin Cities more affordable?

Southwest Minnesota State University, on average. After aid, students pay $14,839/year versus $16,730/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: 85% 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-Twin Cities: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax