College Comparison
Michigan State University vs University of Iowa
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Public
Public
Location
East Lansing, MI
Iowa City, IA
Total Enrollment
52,089
30,779
Undergrad Enrollment
41,234
22,738
Student-Faculty Ratio
17:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
83.6%
Average GPA
3.80
3.80
SAT Range
1180–1360
1130–1330
ACT Range
25–31
21–28
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$40
Total Applicants
62,138
27,770
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$29,001
$21,631
Avg Net Price
$24,630
$20,121
Tuition (In-State)
$16,437
$8,711
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$42,427
$30,674
Room & Board
$12,564
$12,920
% Receiving Aid
88.0%
76.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$9,750
$9,865
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
74.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
66.0%
56.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$64,762
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Explore by Location
Michigan State is in East Lansing, MI
Iowa is in Iowa City, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Michigan State University is $24,630 per year, compared to $20,121 at University of Iowa. University of Iowa is $4,509 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Michigan State University typically score between 1180-1360 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Iowa, the typical SAT range is 1130-1330. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Michigan State University has a graduation rate of 84%, while University of Iowa has a graduation rate of 74%. Michigan State University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Michigan State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, while University of Iowa has a ratio of 16:1. University of Iowa offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Michigan State University, 88% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $9,750. At University of Iowa, 76% of students receive aid with an average grant of $9,865.
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,253, compared to $64,762 for University of Iowa graduates. Graduates from Michigan State University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, MI in a city: small setting. University of Iowa is located in Iowa City, IA in a city: small setting.