Iowa State University vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ames, IA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Location Ames, IA Cambridge, MA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 25,367 4,535
Acceptance Rate 88.7% 4.5%
SAT Average 1,204 1,560
In-State Tuition $10,787 $62,396
Out-of-State Tuition $28,881 $62,396
Avg Net Price $18,589 $20,111
Median Debt at Graduation $22,869 $14,768
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.4% 96.2%
Retention Rate 87.6% 99.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,873 $131,633
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,386 $143,372
Loan Repayment Rate 923200.0% 58700.0%

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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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Iowa State University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology 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. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $62,396, and median 10-year earnings of $143,372.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $20,111.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.2% 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