Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

University of Iowa vs Iowa State University

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

University of IowaIowa State University
Acceptance Rate84.7%89.1%
In-State Tuition$10,964$10,497
Out-of-State Tuition$32,927$27,683
Average Net Price$20,121$17,354
Graduation Rate73.0%75.0%

GradFax Analysis

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

Common Questions

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

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

Source: IPEDS

Is University of Iowa or Iowa State University 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.

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