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University of Iowa vs Iowa State University

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

18
University Wins
12
Tied / N/A
16
Iowa Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Plains
Region
Plains
22,264
Enrollment
25,367
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

84%
Acceptance Rate
89%
1200
SAT Average
1204
26
ACT Midpoint
25
1130-1330
SAT Range
1120-1360

Cost & Financial Aid

$11,283
In-State Tuition
$10,787
$33,371
Out-of-State Tuition
$28,881
$22,531
Average Net Price
$18,589
$15,316
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$10,582
$15,489
Net Price ($30-48K)
$11,506
$19,930
Net Price ($48-75K)
$15,463
$26,266
Net Price ($110K+)
$22,496
18%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
42%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

74%
Graduation Rate
75%
90%
Retention Rate
88%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
84%
$12,922
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$12,702
22%
First-Gen Students
20%

Student Body

56%
Female
46%
74%
White
75%
9%
Hispanic
7%
3%
Black
2%
4%
Asian
4%
0.43
Diversity Index
0.43

Outcomes

$52,696
Earnings (6yr)
$53,873
$60,321
Earnings (8yr)
$59,021
$64,762
Earnings (10yr)
$63,386
$22,500
Median Debt
$22,869
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.36x
80%
Earning Above HS
79%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

100.61%
Mobility Rate
N/A
3203.1%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
314.1%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$114,700
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.75
Economic Connectedness
1.75
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
8.3%
Volunteering Rate
6.1%

Research (Times HE)

#132
World Rank
#156
48.6
Teaching Score
49.3
59.8
Research Score
49.6
54.8
Citations Score
58.2

The Overviews

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA · Public

84% accept 74% grad $64,762 earnings $22,531 net

The University of Iowa has an acceptance rate of 84%, making it accessible to a broad range of students. This high rate reflects the university's commitment to welcoming diverse applicants who seek a solid education in various fields.

According to Opportunity Insights data, while specific mobility metrics are not available, the university's graduates earn a median income of $64,762 ten years post-graduation. This suggests that students can expect a reasonable return on their investment in education, particularly in popular fields such as Business, Health Professions, and Engineering.

The net price for attending the University of Iowa is $22,531, and graduates leave with a median debt of $22,500. Students who thrive here are often those pursuing degrees in practical and in-demand areas, seeking a blend of affordability and solid career outcomes.

Iowa State University

Ames, IA · Public

89% accept 75% grad $63,386 earnings $18,589 net

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.

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