Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Abilene, TX & Beloit, WI
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Beloit College, they're comparing two private colleges with fundamentally different missions and markets. ACU operates with open admission in Texas, serving 60% Pell grant recipients.
Beloit maintains selective admission in Wisconsin, serving 29% Pell students. Yet the earnings data reveals an unexpected twist: the more accessible school delivers stronger outcomes relative to expectations, challenging assumptions about institutional quality.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,738
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$32,004
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Beloit has a social science emphasis, with 22% graduating in social sciences.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67) — career-focused fields that align with immediate employment. Beloit's top programs include Psychology (39 graduates), Anthropology (26), and Writing Studies (21) — liberal arts fields often requiring graduate school for career advancement.
For students prioritizing demonstrated value delivery, ACU provides both lower costs and stronger outcomes relative to expectations. The school serves a more economically diverse population while delivering higher earnings than predicted — a sign of institutional effectiveness.
Beloit offers a selective liberal arts environment that may appeal to students seeking that specific experience, but the data shows weaker financial outcomes relative to student preparation. ACU emerges as the stronger choice for families focused on affordability and proven results, while Beloit may suit students who value the selective college experience and can manage higher costs without excessive borrowing.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
