University of Iowa vs University of Southern California
Iowa City, IA — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | University of Iowa Iowa City, IA | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Iowa City, IA | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 22,264 | 20,443 |
| Acceptance Rate | 83.6% | 9.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,200 | 1,495 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,283 | $72,097 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $33,371 | $72,097 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,531 | $32,740 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,500 | $18,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 73.9% | 91.9% |
| Retention Rate | 90.4% | 95.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $52,696 | $74,461 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $64,762 | $92,498 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 749800.0% | 435800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Iowa and University of Southern California compare?▼
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. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Iowa or University of Southern California?▼
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $64,762. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Iowa or University of Southern California?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Iowa is the more affordable option at $22,531 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% 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