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 & Loretto, PA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Saint Francis University, they're comparing two private Christian institutions with fundamentally different approaches to access and outcomes. ACU operates with open admissions in Texas, serving 60% Pell grant recipients.
Saint Francis maintains selective admissions in Pennsylvania, serving just 18% low-income students. The data reveals a striking pattern: ACU's graduates significantly outperform demographic expectations, while Saint Francis graduates earn less than predicted despite starting from more advantaged backgrounds.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$38,844
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by strong programs in Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates annually), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Saint Francis takes a health-focused approach, with rehabilitation therapy (50 graduates) and allied health (45) leading the way, complemented by business programs like Accounting (27) and Biology (23).
These different program concentrations reflect distinct institutional missions: ACU preparing students for business and professional careers, Saint Francis specializing in healthcare pathways.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers remarkable value by dramatically exceeding earnings expectations while serving a high-need student population. Saint Francis offers higher raw earnings, better completion rates, and specialized healthcare programs — making it the better choice for students who can afford the premium and want those specific advantages.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating superior institutional effectiveness: it takes students predicted to struggle and helps them achieve strong career outcomes. However, the right choice depends on your family's financial situation, program interests, and whether you value the higher completion rates at Saint Francis despite the premium cost.
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.
