University of California-Davis vs Iowa State University
Davis, CA — Ames, IA
| Metric | University of California-Davis Davis, CA | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Davis, CA | Ames, IA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 32,253 | 25,367 |
| Acceptance Rate | 41.8% | 88.7% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,204 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,774 | $10,787 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $50,974 | $28,881 |
| Avg Net Price | $14,741 | $18,589 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,000 | $22,869 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.4% | 75.4% |
| Retention Rate | 92.8% | 87.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $58,461 | $53,873 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $80,838 | $63,386 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 804400.0% | 923200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
University of California-Davis
Davis, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Davis and Iowa State University compare?▼
University of California-Davis (Davis, CA) has an acceptance rate of 41.8%, in-state tuition of $16,774, and median 10-year earnings of $80,838. 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, University of California-Davis or Iowa State University?▼
University of California-Davis graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $80,838 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Davis or Iowa State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Davis is the more affordable option at $14,741 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of California-Davis has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.4% vs 75.4%.
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