Iowa State University

Iowa State University admits approximately 89.1% of applicants, meaning roughly 9 in 10 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Iowa State in the Open Access category with admission rates above 75%.

The peer median admission rate of 78.1% shows Iowa State is somewhat more accessible than typical institutions in its comparison group. This level of accessibility means that academically prepared students have strong chances of admission, though meeting academic standards remains important.

The high admission rate reflects the institution's public mission to serve Iowa residents and qualified out-of-state students. Students should focus on meeting academic preparation requirements rather than viewing admission as highly competitive.

Iowa State's accessible admission combined with strong outcomes makes it an attractive option for students seeking quality education without extremely competitive admission processes. Applicants should still submit strong applications demonstrating academic readiness and fit with the institution's programs.

Iowa State University's published cost of attendance reaches $23,309 per year, including $10,497 in-state tuition, $9,726 for room and board, and $1,091 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $27,683.

However, the average student pays $18,165 after financial aid, representing savings of $5,144 from the sticker price. This net price positions Iowa State $2,575 below the peer median of $15,590, making it more affordable than similar institutions.

The gap between published cost and actual net price demonstrates meaningful financial aid impact for enrolled families. Net costs vary substantially by family income, ranging from $11,734 for the lowest-income families to $21,827 for the highest earners.

This progressive pricing structure helps make Iowa State accessible to families across income levels while maintaining quality educational offerings.

Iowa State University graduates demonstrate consistent earnings growth over time. Median earnings rise from $53,873 six years after enrollment to $59,021 at eight years and $63,386 at ten years, representing 17.7% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 7,489 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures. Earnings span from $43,544 at the 25th percentile to $90,188 at the 75th percentile, reflecting a 2.1:1 ratio between top and bottom quartiles.

Low-income graduates earn $53,500, demonstrating the institution's ability to support upward mobility for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Approximately 22.9% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

Iowa State University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for ranking. Computer Engineering ranks #30 nationally and #1 in Iowa, producing 295 graduates with median earnings of $95,433 and a value score of 76.4.

Mechanical Engineering ranks #90 nationally but leads in enrollment with 429 graduates earning $81,779. Business Administration and Management ranks #77 nationally and #2 in Iowa, graduating 360 students with median earnings of $68,354.

Agribusiness operations stands out with a #6 national ranking, graduating 230 students with strong value scores of 89.6. Digital Marketing ranks #67 nationally and #1 in Iowa with 328 graduates.

Exercise Science and Kinesiology achieves a high #28 national ranking with 238 graduates earning $53,773.