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Iowa State University and University of Northern Iowa are both public institutions — Iowa State University in Ames, IA and University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, IA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Ames, IA · Public
Acceptance rate: 88.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 25,367
Tuition: $28,881/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 75.3%
Top programs: Engineering, Business and marketing, Agriculture
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Ames, IA with published program strength in Engineering and Business and marketing.
Cedar Falls, IA · Public
Acceptance rate: 92.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,529
Tuition: $21,712/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.9%
Top programs: Education, Business and marketing, Communication
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Cedar Falls, IA with published program strength in Education and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Iowa State University | University of Northern Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 88.7% | 92.7% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1120–1360 |
| 1020–1280 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 21–28 | 19–26 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 25,367 | 7,529 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $28,881/year | $21,712/year |
| Average net price after aid | $18,589 | $15,901 |
| Graduation rate | 75.3% | 67.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $63,386 | $55,177 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Ames, IA | Cedar Falls, IA |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Business and marketing, Agriculture | Education, Business and marketing, Communication |
Iowa State University is more selective (88.7% vs 92.7% acceptance rate). University of Northern Iowa has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,901 vs $18,589). Iowa State University reports the higher graduation rate (75.3% vs 67.9%). Iowa State University is the larger undergraduate campus (25,367 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Iowa State University and University of Northern Iowa
Iowa State University has an acceptance rate of 88.7%; University of Northern Iowa is around 92.7%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Iowa State University tuition is $28,881/year. University of Northern Iowa is $21,712/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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