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Harding University and Southern Arkansas University Main Campus are both private nonprofit institutions — Harding University in Searcy, AR and Southern Arkansas University Main Campus in Magnolia, 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.
Magnolia, AR · Public
Acceptance rate: 75.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,708
Tuition: $15,690/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Magnolia, AR with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
| Factor | Harding University | Southern Arkansas University Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 70.5% | 75.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1050–1290 |
| 875–1105 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–29 | 17–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,382 | 2,708 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $26,262/year | $15,690/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,130 | $14,027 |
| Graduation rate | 68.8% | 48.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $52,876 | $42,386 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Searcy, AR | Magnolia, AR |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education | Business and marketing, Education, Health professions |
Harding University is more selective (70.5% vs 75.3% acceptance rate). Southern Arkansas University Main Campus has a lower average net price after grant aid ($14,027 vs $22,130). Harding University reports the higher graduation rate (68.8% vs 48.8%). 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.
Common questions when choosing between Harding University and Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Harding University has an acceptance rate of 70.5%; Southern Arkansas University Main Campus is around 75.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Harding University tuition is $26,262/year. Southern Arkansas University Main Campus is $15,690/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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