University of Iowa vs Virginia Commonwealth University

Iowa City, IA — Richmond, VA

Metric
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Location Iowa City, IA Richmond, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 22,264 20,753
Acceptance Rate 83.6% 92.6%
SAT Average 1,200 1,137
In-State Tuition $11,283 $16,945
Out-of-State Tuition $33,371 $40,109
Avg Net Price $22,531 $23,433
Median Debt at Graduation $22,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 73.9% 64.2%
Retention Rate 90.4% 85.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,696 $47,161
Median Earnings (10 yr) $64,762 $58,128
Loan Repayment Rate 749800.0% 886300.0%

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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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Iowa and Virginia Commonwealth University 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. Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) has an acceptance rate of 92.6%, in-state tuition of $16,945, and median 10-year earnings of $58,128.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Iowa or Virginia Commonwealth University?
University of Iowa graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,762 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Iowa or Virginia Commonwealth University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Iowa is the more affordable option at $22,531 per year versus $23,433.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Iowa has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 73.9% vs 64.2%.

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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