Iowa State University vs Northwestern University
Ames, IA — Evanston, IL
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 204100.0% |
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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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and Northwestern 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. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or Northwestern University?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or Northwestern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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