Ball State University vs Indiana University-Bloomington
Ball State University and Indiana University-Bloomington present distinct profiles for prospective students. Ball State accepts 69% of applicants compared to IU's 82% acceptance rate, making Ball State moderately more selective despite both being accessible options.
Financially, the schools are comparable for in-state students, with Ball State charging $10,758 versus IU's $11,790. However, IU costs significantly more for out-of-state students at $40,482 compared to Ball State's $28,766. Average net prices are similar at $15,898 (Ball State) and $15,342 (IU), though IU graduates carry less debt ($19,509 vs $23,250).
IU demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with an 81% six-year graduation rate compared to Ball State's 63%. Student retention also favors IU at 91% versus Ball State's 77%. Ball State offers smaller class sizes with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio compared to IU's 18:1.
Career outcomes show a notable difference, with IU graduates earning a median of $63,742 ten years post-graduation versus Ball State's $51,833. This $12,000 annual difference represents significant long-term value.
Campus experiences differ by scale. Ball State's 13,770 enrollment creates a more intimate environment, while IU's 36,571 students offer extensive resources and opportunities. Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics.
Ball State suits students seeking smaller class sizes, lower out-of-state costs, and a close-knit campus community. IU better serves students prioritizing higher earning potential, extensive academic resources, and stronger retention support systems.
Ball State University and Indiana University-Bloomington present distinct profiles for prospective students. Ball State accepts 69% of applicants compared to IU's 82% acceptance rate, making Ball State moderately more selective despite both being accessible options.
Financially, the schools are comparable for in-state students, with Ball State charging $10,758 versus IU's $11,790. However, IU costs significantly more for out-of-state students at $40,482 compared to Ball State's $28,766. Average net prices are similar at $15,898 (Ball State) and $15,342 (IU), though IU graduates carry less debt ($19,509 vs $23,250).
IU demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with an 81% six-year graduation rate compared to Ball State's 63%. Student retention also favors IU at 91% versus Ball State's 77%. Ball State offers smaller class sizes with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio compared to IU's 18:1.
Career outcomes show a notable difference, with IU graduates earning a median of $63,742 ten years post-graduation versus Ball State's $51,833. This $12,000 annual difference represents significant long-term value.
Campus experiences differ by scale. Ball State's 13,770 enrollment creates a more intimate environment, while IU's 36,571 students offer extensive resources and opportunities. Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics.
Ball State suits students seeking smaller class sizes, lower out-of-state costs, and a close-knit campus community. IU better serves students prioritizing higher earning potential, extensive academic resources, and stronger retention support systems.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Ball State University | Indiana University-Bloomington | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 69.0% | 82.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,175 | 1,290 |
| Enrollment | 13,770 | 36,571 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,758 | $11,790 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,766 | $40,482 |
| Net Price | $15,898 | $15,342 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 63.3% | 81.2% |
| Retention Rate | 77.2% | 90.6% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $51,833 | $63,742 |
| Median Debt | $23,250 | $19,509 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Ball State University | Indiana University-Bloomington | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations. | $69,338 | Computer Science. | $70,596 |
| Construction Management. | $64,493 | Business/Commerce, General. | $65,832 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. | $63,997 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $61,516 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | $56,776 | Mathematics. | $57,318 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $56,505 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $57,318 |