Head-to-head · 2026
Iowa State University vs Mount Mercy University
Compare average net price ($18,589 at Iowa State University; $20,168 at Mount Mercy University), ROI score (8.52 vs 7.54), ten-year median earnings ($63,386 vs $60,787), and admissions selectivity (88.7% acceptance at Iowa State University; 82.5% at Mount Mercy University) using federal College Scorecard data. Iowa State University has a 5-1 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 | Iowa State University | Mount Mercy University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.52 ✓ | 7.54 |
| Avg net price | $18,589 ✓ | $20,168 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $63,386 ✓ | $60,787 |
| Acceptance rate | 88.7% | 82.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 75.3% ✓ | 57.7% |
| Median debt | $22,869 ✓ | $23,699 |
| Enrollment | 25,367 | 1,107 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1204 | — |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Mount Mercy University costs $1,579 more per year than Iowa State University ($20,168 vs $18,589). Iowa State University graduates report $2,599 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,386 vs $60,787). On EduGradify's model that puts Iowa State University ahead on projected ROI (8.52 vs 7.54, 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, Iowa State University is accessible at 88.7% acceptance versus 82.5% (accessible) at Mount Mercy University.
Frequently asked
Iowa State University vs Mount Mercy University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Iowa State University or Mount Mercy University the better value?
Iowa State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.52 vs 7.54), 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 $20,168 at Mount Mercy University. The annual difference of $1,579 adds up to about $6,316 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Iowa State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,386 vs $60,787 at Mount Mercy University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,599.
Which school is harder to get into?
Mount Mercy University is more selective at 82.5% 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. Iowa State University reports a B value grade; Mount Mercy University reports B.