Head-to-head · 2026
Grinnell College vs Mount Mercy University
Compare average net price ($17,648 at Grinnell College; $20,168 at Mount Mercy University), ROI score (8.90 vs 7.54), ten-year median earnings ($62,830 vs $60,787), and admissions selectivity (14.5% acceptance at Grinnell College; 82.5% at Mount Mercy University) using federal College Scorecard data. Grinnell College has a 6-0 metric-level edge. Grinnell College 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 | Grinnell College | Mount Mercy University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.90 ✓ | 7.54 |
| Avg net price | $17,648 ✓ | $20,168 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $62,830 ✓ | $60,787 |
| Acceptance rate | 14.5% ✓ | 82.5% |
| Graduation rate | 88.1% ✓ | 57.7% |
| Median debt | $17,500 ✓ | $23,699 |
| Enrollment | 1,729 | 1,107 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1486 | — |
| Metric advantages | 6 | 0 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Mount Mercy University costs $2,520 more per year than Grinnell College ($20,168 vs $17,648). Grinnell College graduates report $2,043 higher median earnings after ten years ($62,830 vs $60,787). On EduGradify's model that puts Grinnell College ahead on projected ROI (8.90 vs 7.54, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Grinnell College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Grinnell College is highly competitive at 14.5% acceptance versus 82.5% (accessible) at Mount Mercy University.
Frequently asked
Grinnell College vs Mount Mercy University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Grinnell College or Mount Mercy University the better value?
Grinnell College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.90 vs 7.54), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Grinnell College is cheaper — average net price $17,648 per year vs $20,168 at Mount Mercy University. The annual difference of $2,520 adds up to about $10,080 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Grinnell College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $62,830 vs $60,787 at Mount Mercy University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,043.
Which school is harder to get into?
Grinnell College is more selective at 14.5% acceptance vs 82.5% at Mount Mercy 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. Grinnell College reports a B value grade; Mount Mercy University reports B.