About Indiana State University
Students pay an average net price of $12,188 after financial aid, making this an affordable option for most families. Low-income students with family earnings under $30,000 pay just $7,702 annually. Graduates earn a median salary of $48,387 ten years after college with typical debt of $24,000. The monthly loan payment of $254 represents a manageable burden compared to earnings. Nearly 40% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school serves many first-generation college students.
The campus houses 3,743 students in residence halls, creating a close-knit community feel. Indiana State competes in NCAA Division I athletics as the Sycamores with 420 student-athletes across 11 sports. However, the 41% six-year graduation rate suggests many students struggle to finish their degrees on time.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 72.1%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 42.5%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 41.1%
- Retention Rate
- 68.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $48,387
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $98,915 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $97,959 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $94,408 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $67,420 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $63,997 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $63,005 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $61,350 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $59,124 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,739 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $55,512 |
Campus Life
Basketball dominates campus culture as the home of Larry Bird, and Sycamore pride runs deep during Missouri Valley Conference games. The 420 student-athletes across 11 varsity sports create visible school spirit. With 78% of students from Indiana, weekends often involve trips home or exploring downtown Terre Haute's modest entertainment options. The teacher education program attracts many future educators who form study groups in residence halls. Students gravitate toward campus events since off-campus nightlife remains limited in this city of 60,000. The 17:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, especially important given the 41% six-year graduation rate that reflects the need for academic support.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 3,743 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1865
Campus Safety (2023)
76 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dating Violence | 13 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 6 | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| Burglary | 5 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
| Fondling | 5 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 5 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Stalking | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Robbery | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 19°–37°F
- July Avg
- 66°–88°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 43.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.5%
- Women
- 56.5%
- White
- 67.7%
- Black
- 16.9%
- Hispanic
- 7.2%
- Asian
- 1.5%
- In-State Students
- 78.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 39.1%
Location
- Address
- Terre Haute, Indiana 47809
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $48,387
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $53,967
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $34,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 49.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $254/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $24,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Indiana State University?
Indiana State University accepts 92.30% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. The university prioritizes giving students opportunities rather than exclusivity. This open admission approach aligns with its mission as a public institution serving Indiana residents.
How much does Indiana State University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $12,188 annually after financial aid is applied. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay just $7,702 per year. The university keeps costs manageable with in-state tuition at $9,992, reflecting its commitment to affordable public education.
What is Indiana State University known for academically?
The university maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio and is particularly well-known for its teacher education programs. Indiana State has built a strong reputation for preparing educators who serve schools across the Midwest. The institution also offers comprehensive programs across multiple disciplines as a public research university.
How successful are Indiana State University graduates in finding employment?
Graduates achieve a 96.5% employment rate, demonstrating strong job market outcomes. Ten years after graduation, alumni earn a median salary of $48,387. The university's practical, career-focused approach helps students transition successfully into the workforce.
Where is Indiana State University located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Terre Haute, a small city environment that houses 6,620 students. On-campus housing accommodates 3,743 students, creating a close-knit residential community. The Sycamores compete in NCAA Division I athletics with 11 varsity sports in the Missouri Valley Conference.
Is Indiana State University connected to any famous alumni?
The university is most famous as the alma mater of NBA legend Larry Bird, who led the Sycamores to the NCAA championship game in 1979. Other notable graduates include musician John Mellencamp and NFL coach Jim Harbaugh. This athletic and entertainment legacy gives the school a distinctive place in popular culture beyond academics.
