Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

University of Dubuque vs Upper Iowa University

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

University of DubuqueUpper Iowa University
Acceptance Rate86.9%93.4%
In-State Tuition$40,065$19,000
Out-of-State Tuition$40,065$19,000
Average Net Price$15,692$6,959
Graduation Rate41.0%41.0%

GradFax Analysis

University of Dubuque accepts 86.9% of applicants. Upper Iowa University accepts 93.4%. University of Dubuque's tuition is $40,065. Upper Iowa University's is $19,000. That's a $21,065 difference per year. Six-year graduation rates are close: 41% at University of Dubuque, 41% at Upper Iowa University.

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 →University of Dubuque profileUpper Iowa University profile

Common Questions

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

University of Dubuque. It accepts 86.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is University of Dubuque or Upper Iowa University more affordable?

Upper Iowa University has lower published tuition: $19,000 versus $40,065. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. University of Dubuque is at 41%; 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.

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