Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Iowa State University vs University of Iowa

Ames, IA · Iowa City, IA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Iowa State UniversityUniversity of Iowa
Acceptance Rate89.1%84.7%
In-State Tuition$10,497$10,964
Out-of-State Tuition$27,683$32,927
Average Net Price$17,354$20,121
Graduation Rate75.0%73.0%

GradFax Analysis

Iowa State University accepts 89.1% of applicants. University of Iowa accepts 84.7%. Tuition is close: $10,497 at Iowa State University, $10,964 at University of Iowa. Six-year graduation rates are close: 75% at Iowa State University, 73% at University of Iowa.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Iowa State University profileUniversity of Iowa profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Iowa State University or University of Iowa?

University of Iowa. It accepts 84.7% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Iowa State University or University of Iowa more affordable?

Iowa State University, on average. After aid, students pay $17,354/year versus $20,121/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Iowa State University: 75% of students finish in 6 years. University of Iowa is at 73%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Iowa State University vs University of Iowa: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax