Head-to-head · 2026
Grinnell College vs University of Northern Iowa
Compare average net price ($17,648 at Grinnell College; $15,901 at University of Northern Iowa), ROI score (8.90 vs 8.68), ten-year median earnings ($62,830 vs $55,177), and admissions selectivity (14.5% acceptance at Grinnell College; 92.7% at University of Northern Iowa) using federal College Scorecard data. Grinnell College has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Grinnell College leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
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 | University of Northern Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.90 ✓ | 8.68 |
| Avg net price | $17,648 | $15,901 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $62,830 ✓ | $55,177 |
| Acceptance rate | 14.5% ✓ | 92.7% |
| Graduation rate | 88.1% ✓ | 67.9% |
| Median debt | $17,500 ✓ | $19,691 |
| Enrollment | 1,729 | 7,529 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1486 ✓ | 1122 |
| Metric advantages | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Grinnell College costs $1,747 more per year than University of Northern Iowa ($17,648 vs $15,901). Grinnell College graduates report $7,653 higher median earnings after ten years ($62,830 vs $55,177). On EduGradify's model that puts Grinnell College ahead on projected ROI (8.90 vs 8.68, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Grinnell College) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Grinnell College is highly competitive at 14.5% acceptance versus 92.7% (accessible) at University of Northern Iowa.
Frequently asked
Grinnell College vs University of Northern Iowa, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Grinnell College or University of Northern Iowa the better value?
Grinnell College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.90 vs 8.68), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Northern Iowa is cheaper — average net price $15,901 per year vs $17,648 at Grinnell College. The annual difference of $1,747 adds up to about $6,988 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Grinnell College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $62,830 vs $55,177 at University of Northern Iowa. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,653.
Which school is harder to get into?
Grinnell College is more selective at 14.5% acceptance vs 92.7% at University of Northern Iowa.
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; University of Northern Iowa reports B.