You would borrow a median $23,199 — about $264 a month for ten years. Graduates earn a median $62,203 ten years after starting, so the debt clears in roughly 1 years of the salary premium.
It is a fair deal, close to the national middle. What you study and what you borrow will matter more than the badge.
Under roughly 15% of gross pay, repayment is generally considered manageable alongside rent and living costs.
Every dollar you win is a dollar you never repay — and it moves the 1-year payback above. We list 1 scholarship tied to North Dakota State University.
See all 1 North Dakota State University scholarships →Tell us what you need and we will come back with the lenders that actually fund students from your country — including options with no US co-signer. No obligation, and we never charge you.
The typical graded university clears its debt in 1.3 years on median earnings of $57,146 against $22,500 of debt. North Dakota State University clears its debt faster than that, and its graduates earn $22,683 a year more than a US worker with only a high-school diploma.
| Nearby university | Grade | Debt | Earnings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Dakota North Dakota | B | $22,057 | $63,552 | 0.9 yrs |
| Valley City State University North Dakota | C | $20,369 | $52,725 | 1.5 yrs |
| University of Jamestown North Dakota | C | $27,000 | $56,621 | 1.6 yrs |
| Minot State University North Dakota | C | $19,609 | $51,759 | 1.6 yrs |
| Dickinson State University North Dakota | C | $18,442 | $50,720 | 1.7 yrs |
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard — earnings and debt cover students who received federal financial aid and blend every subject taught at the institution. Figures imported 28 Aug 2026. This page is information, not financial advice.