Boise State University: Is It Worth It?

Graduate earnings, costs, and ROI analysis with federal data

By Appffeine Research Team · Updated February 11, 2026

Overview

Boise State University is located in Boise, ID. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Boise State University actually earn.

Data last updated: February 11, 2026

| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $51,658 | | In-State Tuition | $8,782 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $26,976 | | Acceptance Rate | 84.0% | | Graduation Rate | 61.9% | | Student Population | 17,081 |

Graduate Earnings

According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Boise State University graduates is $51,658 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.

This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.

How This Compares

Compare Boise State University's graduate earnings to:

  • [Similar schools in ID](/schools/id)
  • [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
  • [National averages by major](/majors)

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of attending Boise State University:

| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $8,782 | $26,976 | | Room & Board | $16,610 | $16,610 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $101,568 | $174,344 |

Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

ROI Analysis

To calculate your personal ROI:

  • Estimate your total cost after financial aid
  • Compare to median earnings of $51,658
  • Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
  • Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
[Calculate Your Personal ROI →](/tools/roi-calculator)

Top Majors at Boise State University

The highest-earning majors at Boise State University typically include:

  • Engineering and Computer Science programs
  • Business and Finance degrees
  • Healthcare and Nursing programs
[See earnings by major at Boise State University →](/school/boise-state-university/majors)

Similar Schools to Consider

Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:

  • Schools in ID with similar outcomes
  • Institutions with comparable admission rates
  • Universities with strong programs in your intended major
[Compare with similar schools →](/compare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boise State University worth the tuition?

With median graduate earnings of $51,658 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $174,344, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.

What percentage of Boise State University students graduate?

The graduation rate at Boise State University is 61.9%, which is above the national average.

How competitive is admission to Boise State University?

Boise State University has an acceptance rate of 84.0%.

---

Add Boise State University to Your College List

Track deadlines, compare costs, and see how Boise State University fits your college plan. Appffeine pulls federal earnings data so you can make an informed decision.

Limited time: Free-for-1-Year access for early families — full access to all features, unlimited schools, and family collaboration included. Spots are limited.

[Add to My List →](/api/login)

---

This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.