University of Northern Iowa vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Cedar Falls, IA — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Cedar Falls, IA San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 7,529 21,996
Acceptance Rate 92.7% 31.3%
SAT Average 1,122
In-State Tuition $9,936 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $21,712 $34,665
Avg Net Price $15,901 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $19,691 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 68.5% 85.7%
Retention Rate 81.7% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,222 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $55,177 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 525300.0% 437700.0%

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

Full Profile
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Northern Iowa and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
University of Northern Iowa (Cedar Falls, IA) has an acceptance rate of 92.7%, in-state tuition of $9,936, and median 10-year earnings of $55,177. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Northern Iowa or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $55,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Northern Iowa or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Northern Iowa is the more affordable option at $15,901 per year versus $16,665.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.7% vs 68.5%.

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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