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Harding University and Ouachita Baptist University are both private nonprofit institutions — Harding University in Searcy, AR and Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, AR. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Searcy, AR · Private
Acceptance rate: 70.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,382
Tuition: $26,262/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 68.8%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Searcy, AR with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
Arkadelphia, AR · Private
Acceptance rate: 67.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,602
Tuition: $34,500/year
Student-faculty ratio: 14.0:1
Graduation rate: 61.4%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Arkadelphia, AR with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Harding University | Ouachita Baptist University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 70.5% | 67.5% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1050–1290 |
| 1070–1280 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–29 | 22–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,382 | 1,602 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $26,262/year | $34,500/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,130 | $22,409 |
| Graduation rate | 68.8% | 61.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $52,876 | $51,673 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 14.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Searcy, AR | Arkadelphia, AR |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Health professions |
Ouachita Baptist University is more selective (67.5% vs 70.5% acceptance rate). Harding University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($22,130 vs $22,409). Harding University reports the higher graduation rate (68.8% vs 61.4%). Harding University is the larger undergraduate campus (3,382 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Harding University and Ouachita Baptist University
Harding University has an acceptance rate of 70.5%; Ouachita Baptist University is around 67.5%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Harding University tuition is $26,262/year. Ouachita Baptist University is $34,500/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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