College comparison

Buena Vista University vs Northern State University

A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.

Metric	Buena Vista University Storm Lake, IA	Northern State University Aberdeen, SD
Acceptance rateBuena Vista University is more selective	78%	93%
SAT (25–75)	—	980–1160
ACT (25–75)	—	—
Undergrad enrollment	1,366	1,273
Avg net price	$18,846	$15,812
Median earnings (10 yr)Buena Vista University reports higher median earnings	$49,156	$47,618
Graduation rate	62%	49%
Median debt	$25,000	$22,320
Economic mobility	1.6%	—
Test policy	—	—
Type	Private (nonprofit)	Public

Quick answers

Is Buena Vista University or Northern State University harder to get into?

Buena Vista University is more selective: Buena Vista University's acceptance rate is approximately 78% and Northern State University's is approximately 93% (estimates from public and primary sources).

What SAT score do you need for Buena Vista University vs Northern State University?

The middle-50% SAT range is — at Buena Vista University and 980–1160 at Northern State University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.

These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.