---
title: Iowa State University — PickACampus
description: Learn about Iowa State University in Ames: 89% acceptance rate, 75% graduation rate, $53,873 median salary, and #59 ranking on PickACampus.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/59
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Iowa State University

Iowa State University is a public institution located in an urban setting in Ames, Iowa, with a total enrollment of 25,367 students. The university maintains an 89% acceptance rate and a 75% graduation rate, with graduates earning a median starting salary of $53,873. Ranked #59 on PickACampus, the school features a student-faculty ratio of 18:1 and average standardized test scores of 1204 for the SAT and 25 for the ACT.

## Overview
- Location: Ames, IA
- Type: Public
- Setting: urban
- Total enrollment: 25,367

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 89%
- Average SAT: 1,204
- Average ACT: 25
- Average GPA: 3.50

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $10,787
- Out-of-state tuition: $28,881
- Room and board: $10,808
- Average financial aid: $11,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $22,869

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 75%
- 4-year graduation rate: 57%
- Freshman retention: 88%
- Employment rate: 86%
- Average starting salary: $53,873

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 18:1

## Common questions

Q: What is Iowa State University's acceptance rate?
A: Iowa State University's acceptance rate is 89%.

Q: How much does Iowa State University cost?
A: Iowa State University charges $10,787 for in-state tuition and $28,881 for out-of-state. Room and board and fees are additional.

Q: Where is Iowa State University located?
A: Iowa State University is located in Ames, IA.

Q: What SAT score do you need for Iowa State University?
A: The average SAT score at Iowa State University is 1,204.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Iowa State University?
A: Iowa State University has a 6-year graduation rate of 75%.

Compare Iowa State University with other schools free at https://pickacampus.com/college/59