Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Simpson College vs Upper Iowa University

Indianola, IA · Fayette, IA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Simpson CollegeUpper Iowa University
Acceptance Rate88.9%93.4%
In-State Tuition$46,212$19,000
Out-of-State Tuition$46,212$19,000
Average Net Price$12,196$6,959
Graduation Rate66.0%41.0%

GradFax Analysis

Simpson College accepts 88.9% of applicants. Upper Iowa University accepts 93.4%. Simpson College's tuition is $46,212. Upper Iowa University's is $19,000. That's a $27,212 difference per year. Simpson College graduates 66% of students in 6 years. Upper Iowa University graduates 41%.

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 →Simpson College profileUpper Iowa University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Simpson College or Upper Iowa University?

Simpson College. It accepts 88.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Simpson College or Upper Iowa University more affordable?

Upper Iowa University has lower published tuition: $19,000 versus $46,212. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Simpson College: 66% of students finish in 6 years. Upper Iowa University is at 41%.

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.

Simpson College vs Upper Iowa University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax