Head-to-head · 2026
Iowa State University vs St Luke's College
Compare average net price ($18,589 at Iowa State University; $19,820 at St Luke's College), ROI score (8.52 vs 7.70), ten-year median earnings ($63,386 vs $61,033), and admissions selectivity (88.7% acceptance at Iowa State University; 80% at St Luke's College) using federal College Scorecard data. Iowa State University has a narrow 4-3 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 | St Luke's College |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.52 ✓ | 7.70 |
| Avg net price | $18,589 ✓ | $19,820 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $63,386 ✓ | $61,033 |
| Acceptance rate | 88.7% | 80% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 75.3% | 100% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,869 | $15,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 25,367 | 167 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1204 ✓ | 980 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
St Luke's College costs $1,231 more per year than Iowa State University ($19,820 vs $18,589). Iowa State University graduates report $2,353 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,386 vs $61,033). On EduGradify's model that puts Iowa State University ahead on projected ROI (8.52 vs 7.70, 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 80% (accessible) at St Luke's College.
Frequently asked
Iowa State University vs St Luke's College, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Iowa State University or St Luke's College the better value?
Iowa State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.52 vs 7.70), 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 $19,820 at St Luke's College. The annual difference of $1,231 adds up to about $4,924 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Iowa State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,386 vs $61,033 at St Luke's College. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,353.
Which school is harder to get into?
St Luke's College is more selective at 80% 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; St Luke's College reports B.