Cornell University vs Iowa State University
Ithaca, NY — Ames, IA
| Metric | Cornell University Ithaca, NY | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ithaca, NY | Ames, IA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 15,995 | 25,367 |
| Acceptance Rate | 8.8% | 88.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,535 | 1,204 |
| In-State Tuition | $69,314 | $10,787 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $69,314 | $28,881 |
| Avg Net Price | $28,690 | $18,589 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 | $22,869 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.3% | 75.4% |
| Retention Rate | 98.4% | 87.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $87,830 | $53,873 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043 | $63,386 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 313700.0% | 923200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Cornell University and Iowa State University compare?▼
Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043. Iowa State University (Ames, IA) has an acceptance rate of 88.7%, in-state tuition of $10,787, and median 10-year earnings of $63,386.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Cornell University or Iowa State University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Cornell University or Iowa State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $28,690.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% vs 75.4%.
More Comparisons
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