Head-to-head · 2026
Coe College vs Iowa State University
Compare average net price ($18,745 at Coe College; $18,589 at Iowa State University), ROI score (7.62 vs 8.52), ten-year median earnings ($57,125 vs $63,386), and admissions selectivity (64% acceptance at Coe College; 88.7% at Iowa State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Iowa State University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Iowa State University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Coe College | Iowa State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.62 | 8.52 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $18,745 | $18,589 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $57,125 | $63,386 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 64% ✓ | 88.7% |
| Graduation rate | 65.9% | 75.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $22,869 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,164 | 25,367 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1223 ✓ | 1204 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Coe College costs $156 more per year than Iowa State University ($18,745 vs $18,589). Iowa State University graduates report $6,261 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,386 vs $57,125). On EduGradify's model that puts Iowa State University ahead on projected ROI (8.52 vs 7.62, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Iowa State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Coe College is accessible at 64% acceptance versus 88.7% (accessible) at Iowa State University.
Frequently asked
Coe College vs Iowa State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Coe College or Iowa State University the better value?
Iowa State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.52 vs 7.62), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Iowa State University is cheaper — average net price $18,589 per year vs $18,745 at Coe College. The annual difference of $156 adds up to about $624 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Iowa State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,386 vs $57,125 at Coe College. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,261.
Which school is harder to get into?
Coe College is more selective at 64% acceptance vs 88.7% at Iowa State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Coe College reports a B value grade; Iowa State University reports B.