University of Missouri-Columbia vs Iowa State University

Columbia, MO — Ames, IA

Metric
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Location Columbia, MO Ames, IA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 23,929 25,367
Acceptance Rate 78.5% 88.7%
SAT Average 1,247 1,204
In-State Tuition $14,837 $10,787
Out-of-State Tuition $36,056 $28,881
Avg Net Price $20,268 $18,589
Median Debt at Graduation $20,500 $22,869
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.5% 75.4%
Retention Rate 92.7% 87.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,756 $53,873
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,403 $63,386
Loan Repayment Rate 891300.0% 923200.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Missouri-Columbia and Iowa State University compare?
University of Missouri-Columbia (Columbia, MO) has an acceptance rate of 78.5%, in-state tuition of $14,837, and median 10-year earnings of $63,403. 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 Missouri-Columbia or Iowa State University?
University of Missouri-Columbia graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,403 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Missouri-Columbia 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 $20,268.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Missouri-Columbia has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.5% vs 75.4%.

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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