Head-to-head · 2026
Coe College vs Iowa State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Coe College, 5 for Iowa State University — Iowa State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| 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 |
| Wins | 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.