Academic Comparison between ISU and Mount Mercy

Iowa State University and Mount Mercy University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. ISU is a four-year, public school located in Ames, IA and Mount Mercy is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Cedar Rapids, IA.

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Iowa State Universityvs.Mount Mercy University
Ames, IowaLocationCedar Rapids, Iowa
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Private (not-for-profit)
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Research University (very high research activity)Carnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (medium programs)
In-State$10,787
Out-Of-State$28,881
2025 Tuition & Fees$40,878
73%% Receiving Financial Aid86%
$10,270Average Amount of Financial Aid$27,661
88.66 %Acceptance Rates82.52 %
28.84 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)27.94 %
1,250SAT Score-
24ACT Score-
75 %Graduation Rate58 %
19 %Transfer-out Rate-
88 %Retention Rate73 %
30,380Student Population1,417
1,432Number of Faculties71
18 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio14 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services