Iowa State University vs George Mason University
Ames, IA — Fairfax, VA
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | George Mason University Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | Fairfax, VA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 27,752 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 87.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | 1,274 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $14,220 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $38,688 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $17,915 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 68.6% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 86.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $60,536 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $76,343 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 731900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and George Mason University 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. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or George Mason University?▼
George Mason University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $76,343 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or George Mason University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 68.6%.
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