University of Nebraska-Lincoln vs Iowa State University

Lincoln, NE — Ames, IA

Metric
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Location Lincoln, NE Ames, IA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 19,178 25,367
Acceptance Rate 87.5% 88.7%
SAT Average 1,191 1,204
In-State Tuition $10,434 $10,787
Out-of-State Tuition $28,584 $28,881
Avg Net Price $17,747 $18,589
Median Debt at Graduation $21,000 $22,869
4-Year Graduation Rate 66.4% 75.4%
Retention Rate 86.0% 87.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,692 $53,873
Median Earnings (10 yr) $56,887 $63,386
Loan Repayment Rate 686600.0% 923200.0%

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

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University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Iowa State University compare?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Lincoln, NE) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $10,434, and median 10-year earnings of $56,887. 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 Nebraska-Lincoln or Iowa State University?
Iowa State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,386 vs $56,887. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Nebraska-Lincoln or Iowa State University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Nebraska-Lincoln is the more affordable option at $17,747 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Iowa State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 75.4% vs 66.4%.

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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