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Iowa State University

Public Ames, IA · Urban · Plains · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
75%
Graduation Rate
$63,386
Earnings (10yr)
$18,589
Net Price
89%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Iowa State University enrolls 25,367 students, making it a sizable public institution that caters to a diverse population. With an 89% acceptance rate, it welcomes a wide range of applicants, fostering an inclusive academic environment. The school’s graduation rate stands at 75%, reflecting a solid commitment to student success.

According to Opportunity Insights data, Iowa State University does not have specific mobility metrics available. However, the university’s strong programs in engineering, business, and computer science suggest a pathway for students to improve their economic standing. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $63,386 within ten years of completing their degree, indicating a favorable return on investment.

The cost of attendance at Iowa State is approximately $18,589, with median student debt at $22,869. A significant 19% of students receive Pell Grants, which assist those from lower-income families. This environment is particularly beneficial for students pursuing careers in engineering and technology, where demand continues to grow.

Rankings

How Iowa Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation75%Earnings 10yr$63KNet Price$19KRetention88%Median Debt$23KPell Grant Rate19%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$11K$0-30K$12K$30-48K$15K$48-75K$22K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$10,787
In-State Tuition
$28,881
Out-of-State
$18,589
Avg Net Price
$22,869
Median Debt
19%
Pell Grant Rate
43%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$10,582
Family Income $0–$30K
$11,506
Family Income $30K–$48K
$15,463
Family Income $48K–$75K
$22,496
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$53,873
6 Years After Entry
$59,021
8 Years
$63,386
10 Years
0.36x
Debt-to-Earnings
79%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$53,873 6yr $59,021 8yr $63,386 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.75
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Research & Teaching

Data: Times Higher Education World University Rankings

#156
World Rank
49.3
Teaching
49.6
Research
58.2
Citations
23.2
International

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 89%
Retention Rate 88%
SAT Average 1204
ACT Midpoint 25
SAT Range 1120–1360
ACT Range 21–28
Full-Time Faculty 84%
Faculty Salary (mo) $12,702
Diversity Index 0.43
First-Gen Students 20%

Top Programs

Engineering 21%
Business & Marketing 17%
Biology & Biomedical 6%
Visual & Performing Arts 5%
Computer Science & IT 5%
Education 4%
Psychology 4%
Communications 3%