Iowa State University vs University of California-Los Angeles

Ames, IA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Location Ames, IA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 25,367 33,475
Acceptance Rate 88.7% 9.0%
SAT Average 1,204
In-State Tuition $10,787 $15,203
Out-of-State Tuition $28,881 $49,403
Avg Net Price $18,589 $12,548
Median Debt at Graduation $22,869 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.4% 92.6%
Retention Rate 87.6% 97.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,873 $59,063
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,386 $82,511
Loan Repayment Rate 923200.0% 748300.0%

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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University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Iowa State University and University of California-Los Angeles 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. University of California-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.0%, in-state tuition of $15,203, and median 10-year earnings of $82,511.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or University of California-Los Angeles?
University of California-Los Angeles graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $82,511 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or University of California-Los Angeles?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Los Angeles is the more affordable option at $12,548 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Los Angeles has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 92.6% 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