Head-to-head · 2026
Iowa State University vs University of Northern Iowa
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Iowa State University, 3 for University of Northern Iowa — 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 | University of Northern Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.52 | 8.68 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $18,589 | $15,901 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $63,386 ✓ | $55,177 |
| Acceptance rate | 88.7% ✓ | 92.7% |
| Graduation rate | 75.3% ✓ | 67.9% |
| Median debt | $22,869 | $19,691 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 25,367 | 7,529 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1204 ✓ | 1122 |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Iowa State University costs $2,688 more per year than University of Northern Iowa ($18,589 vs $15,901). Iowa State University graduates report $8,209 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,386 vs $55,177). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Northern Iowa ahead on projected ROI (8.68 vs 8.52, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Northern Iowa) 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 92.7% (accessible) at University of Northern Iowa.
Frequently asked
Iowa State University vs University of Northern Iowa, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Iowa State University or University of Northern Iowa the better value?
University of Northern Iowa has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.68 vs 8.52), 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 $18,589 at Iowa State University. The annual difference of $2,688 adds up to about $10,752 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Iowa State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,386 vs $55,177 at University of Northern Iowa. The annual gap in the federal data is $8,209.
Which school is harder to get into?
Iowa State University is more selective at 88.7% 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. Iowa State University reports a B value grade; University of Northern Iowa reports B.