Iowa State University vs Boston College
Ames, IA — Chestnut Hill, MA
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | Chestnut Hill, MA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 10,085 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 16.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | 1,507 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $70,702 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $70,702 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $41,704 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $19,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 90.9% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 96.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $85,717 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $103,937 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 214900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and Boston College compare?▼
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. Boston College (Chestnut Hill, MA) has an acceptance rate of 16.4%, in-state tuition of $70,702, and median 10-year earnings of $103,937.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or Boston College?▼
Boston College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $103,937 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or Boston College?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $41,704.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Boston College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 90.9% vs 75.4%.
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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