Kansas State University vs Iowa State University

Manhattan, KS — Ames, IA

Metric
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Location Manhattan, KS Ames, IA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 15,142 25,367
Acceptance Rate 81.7% 88.7%
SAT Average 1,151 1,204
In-State Tuition $11,221 $10,787
Out-of-State Tuition $28,568 $28,881
Avg Net Price $19,406 $18,589
Median Debt at Graduation $21,250 $22,869
4-Year Graduation Rate 70.8% 75.4%
Retention Rate 85.6% 87.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $49,330 $53,873
Median Earnings (10 yr) $57,262 $63,386
Loan Repayment Rate 746100.0% 923200.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Kansas State University and Iowa State University compare?
Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS) has an acceptance rate of 81.7%, in-state tuition of $11,221, and median 10-year earnings of $57,262. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Kansas State University or Iowa State University?
Iowa State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,386 vs $57,262. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Kansas State University or Iowa State University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Iowa State University is the more affordable option at $18,589 per year versus $19,406.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 70.8%.

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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