Columbia University in the City of New York vs University of Iowa

New York, NY — Iowa City, IA

Metric
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
Location New York, NY Iowa City, IA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 8,973 22,264
Acceptance Rate 4.0% 83.6%
SAT Average 1,553 1,200
In-State Tuition $71,845 $11,283
Out-of-State Tuition $71,845 $33,371
Avg Net Price $21,590 $22,531
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $22,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 73.9%
Retention Rate 98.0% 90.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,535 $52,696
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,491 $64,762
Loan Repayment Rate 185800.0% 749800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia University in the City of New York and University of Iowa compare?
Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491. University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA) has an acceptance rate of 83.6%, in-state tuition of $11,283, and median 10-year earnings of $64,762.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Iowa?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $64,762. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or University of Iowa?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 per year versus $22,531.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 73.9%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025