Iowa State University vs University of California-San Diego
Ames, IA — La Jolla, CA
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | La Jolla, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 34,948 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 26.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $16,758 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $50,958 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $12,470 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $15,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 86.8% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 94.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $65,669 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $84,943 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 802100.0% |
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-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and University of California-San Diego 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-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) has an acceptance rate of 26.7%, in-state tuition of $16,758, and median 10-year earnings of $84,943.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or University of California-San Diego?▼
University of California-San Diego graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $84,943 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or University of California-San Diego?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-San Diego is the more affordable option at $12,470 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-San Diego has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.8% 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