North Dakota State University-Main Campus vs Iowa State University
Fargo, ND — Ames, IA
| Metric | North Dakota State University-Main Campus Fargo, ND | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Fargo, ND | Ames, IA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,471 | 25,367 |
| Acceptance Rate | 95.0% | 88.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,150 | 1,204 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,110 | $10,787 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $15,764 | $28,881 |
| Avg Net Price | $15,543 | $18,589 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,199 | $22,869 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 63.8% | 75.4% |
| Retention Rate | 78.4% | 87.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $54,312 | $53,873 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,203 | $63,386 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 549700.0% | 923200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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North Dakota State University-Main Campus
Fargo, ND
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do North Dakota State University-Main Campus and Iowa State University compare?▼
North Dakota State University-Main Campus (Fargo, ND) has an acceptance rate of 95.0%, in-state tuition of $11,110, and median 10-year earnings of $62,203. 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, North Dakota State University-Main Campus or Iowa State University?▼
Iowa State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,386 vs $62,203. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, North Dakota State University-Main Campus or Iowa State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), North Dakota State University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $15,543 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 63.8%.
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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