Head-to-head · 2026
Iowa State University vs St Luke's College
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Iowa State University, 3 for St Luke's College — 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 | 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 |
| Wins | 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.