Iowa State University vs Santa Clara University

Ames, IA — Santa Clara, CA

Metric
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
Location Ames, IA Santa Clara, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 25,367 6,552
Acceptance Rate 88.7% 48.0%
SAT Average 1,204 1,426
In-State Tuition $10,787 $61,293
Out-of-State Tuition $28,881 $61,293
Avg Net Price $18,589 $50,062
Median Debt at Graduation $22,869 $19,162
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.4% 88.2%
Retention Rate 87.6% 93.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,873 $91,198
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,386 $109,183
Loan Repayment Rate 923200.0% 120700.0%

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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Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Iowa State University and Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA) has an acceptance rate of 48.0%, in-state tuition of $61,293, and median 10-year earnings of $109,183.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or Santa Clara University?
Santa Clara University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $109,183 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or Santa Clara University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $50,062.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Santa Clara University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.2% 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