Iowa State University vs University of Iowa
Ames, IA — Iowa City, IA
| Metric | Iowa State University Ames, IA | University of Iowa Iowa City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ames, IA | Iowa City, IA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 25,367 | 22,264 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.7% | 83.6% |
| SAT Average | 1,204 | 1,200 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,787 | $11,283 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,881 | $33,371 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,589 | $22,531 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,869 | $22,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 75.4% | 73.9% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 90.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $53,873 | $52,696 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,386 | $64,762 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 923200.0% | 749800.0% |
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 Iowa
Iowa City, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Iowa State University and University of Iowa 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 Iowa (Iowa City, IA) has an acceptance rate of 83.6%, in-state tuition of $11,283, and median 10-year earnings of $64,762.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Iowa State University or University of Iowa?▼
University of Iowa graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,762 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Iowa State University or University of Iowa?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $22,531.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 73.9%.
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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