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Sterling College and Friends University are both private nonprofit institutions — Sterling College in Sterling, KS and Friends University in Wichita, KS. 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.
Sterling, KS · Private
Acceptance rate: 48.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 538
Tuition: $33,700/year
Student-faculty ratio: 8.0:1
Graduation rate: 41.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Sterling, KS with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
Wichita, KS · Private
Acceptance rate: 55.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,048
Tuition: $34,192/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 43.4%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Wichita, KS with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Sterling College | Friends University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 48.2% | 55.2% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 960–1090 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 22 average | 15–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 538 | 1,048 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $33,700/year | $34,192/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,371 | $27,715 |
| Graduation rate | 41.3% | 43.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $45,846 | $52,113 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 8.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Sterling, KS | Wichita, KS |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Education, Security and law enforcement | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Psychology |
Sterling College is more selective (48.2% vs 55.2% acceptance rate). Sterling College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($22,371 vs $27,715). Friends University reports the higher graduation rate (43.4% vs 41.3%). Friends University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,048 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 Sterling College and Friends University
Sterling College has an acceptance rate of 48.2%; Friends University is around 55.2%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Sterling College tuition is $33,700/year. Friends University is $34,192/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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