Iowa State University vs University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Ames, IA — Champaign, IL
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | Champaign, IL |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 36,258 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 42.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | 1,440 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $16,004 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $35,124 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $14,355 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 85.0% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 94.8% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $64,802 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $81,054 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 854700.0% |
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 Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 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 Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) has an acceptance rate of 42.4%, in-state tuition of $16,004, and median 10-year earnings of $81,054.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?▼
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,054 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is the more affordable option at $14,355 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.0% 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