South Dakota State University vs Iowa State University
Brookings, SD — Ames, IA
| Metric | South Dakota State University Brookings, SD | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Brookings, SD | Ames, IA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,198 | 25,367 |
| Acceptance Rate | 98.3% | 88.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,120 | 1,204 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,299 | $10,787 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $12,809 | $28,881 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,841 | $18,589 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $22,869 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 61.0% | 75.4% |
| Retention Rate | 83.8% | 87.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $49,564 | $53,873 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $55,070 | $63,386 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 546900.0% | 923200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do South Dakota State University and Iowa State University compare?▼
South Dakota State University (Brookings, SD) has an acceptance rate of 98.3%, in-state tuition of $9,299, and median 10-year earnings of $55,070. 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, South Dakota State University or Iowa State University?▼
Iowa State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,386 vs $55,070. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, South Dakota 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 $19,841.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 61.0%.
More Comparisons
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