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Grinnell College vs Iowa State University

4

Grinnell College

3

Iowa State University

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Grinnell College Iowa State University Winner
Acceptance Rate 13% 89% Grinnell College
Graduation Rate 88% 75% Grinnell College
Avg Earnings (5yr) $49,004 $53,873 Iowa State University
Median Debt $17,500 $22,869 Grinnell College
Tuition (In-State) $64,862 $10,497 Iowa State University
Retention Rate 93% 88% Grinnell College
Financial Aid 12% 46% Iowa State University

Comparison Analysis

Iowa State University graduates earn more than Grinnell College graduates, with median earnings of $53,873 compared to $49,004. Grinnell College has a higher graduation rate at 87.9%, while Iowa State's graduation rate is 75%. Grinnell College has a much lower acceptance rate of 12.7% compared to Iowa State's 89.1%.

Grinnell College's tuition is significantly higher at $64,862, while Iowa State's tuition is $10,497. Iowa State University appears to offer a better value proposition due to its lower tuition and higher graduate earnings, despite a lower graduation rate.

Students may consider Grinnell College if they prioritize a higher graduation rate and a more selective admissions process. Students may choose Iowa State University if they prioritize lower tuition costs and higher potential earnings after graduation.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Grinnell College Earnings Iowa State University Earnings Difference
Biology, General $37,170 $32,528 14% favor Grinnell College
Psychology, General $0 $34,155
Political Science and Government $36,662 $30,715 19% favor Grinnell College
Mathematics $0 $51,422
English Language and Literature, General $0 $38,375
Economics $46,791 $57,619 23% favor Iowa State University
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $28,691 $37,909 32% favor Iowa State University
History $39,687 $41,294 4% favor Iowa State University
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $0 $36,532
Biology, General $37,170 $28,875 29% favor Grinnell College

Quick Facts

Grinnell College

Type Private Non-Profit
Location Grinnell, IA
Setting Town
Students 1,705
Type Public
Location Ames, IA
Setting City
Students 25,033

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

Grinnell College has median earnings of $49,004 and tuition of $64,862. Iowa State University has median earnings of $53,873 and tuition of $10,497. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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