Iona University: 96.4% Acceptance Rate

96.4%Acceptance

$45,880Tuition

2,731Students

57%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$73,595Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Roman Catholic

About Iona University

Iona University builds its reputation on business education and basketball excellence. The 2,731-student Catholic institution has produced notable graduates including legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano and ESPN anchor Bob Ley. With a 96.4% acceptance rate, Iona opens its doors wide in suburban New Rochelle. The university maintains strong ties to its Catholic identity while serving a diverse student body that's 31% Hispanic.

Students pay an average net price of $27,951 after financial aid, less than the $65,150 sticker price. Graduates earn a median of $73,595 ten years after graduation, making the typical debt load of $25,999 manageable with monthly payments of $276. The financial picture improves over time as alumni advance in their careers.

Basketball defines much of campus culture through the NCAA Division I program competing in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The Gaels field 18 varsity sports with 446 total athletes supported by over $6.2 million in athletic scholarships. With a 79.98% retention rate and 15:1 student-faculty ratio, Iona creates a close-knit community. However, the 57% six-year graduation rate suggests students need strong academic focus to finish successfully.

Academics & Faculty

Iona University built its reputation around business programs, particularly through its Hagan School of Business which attracts students seeking practical, career-focused education. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio means professors can provide personal attention that helps students navigate both coursework and career planning. However, the 57% six-year graduation rate suggests students face challenges completing their degrees on time. The Catholic university also offers solid programs in communications and education, fields where its alumni network proves valuable. With 91% of graduates employed shortly after graduation, the school delivers on its promise of preparing students for the workforce, even if the path isn't always smooth.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Full-Time Faculty: 56.7%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 57.0%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 57.4%
Retention Rate: 80.0%
Median Earnings (10 years): $73,595
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Large)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Master	$70,456
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas.	Master	$70,176
Accounting and Related Services.	Master	$67,899
Finance and Financial Management Services.	Master	$66,318
Management Information Systems and Services.	Bachelor	$55,964
Finance and Financial Management Services.	Bachelor	$52,107
Accounting and Related Services.	Bachelor	$50,270
International Business.	Bachelor	$49,683
Psychology, General.	Master	$46,087
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$41,193

View all 88 programs →

Campus Life

The 1,408-bed housing capacity serves just over half of Iona's 2,731 students, creating a tight-knit residential community in New Rochelle's suburban setting. You're 20 miles north of Manhattan, close enough for weekend trips to the city but far enough to enjoy a traditional college campus feel. Pack your winter coat - you'll need it for snowy Hudson Valley winters, though spring and fall offer beautiful weather for walking between classes.

Basketball dominates campus culture, with students packing into the Hynes Athletic Center to cheer on the Gaels in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The 57.4% six-year graduation rate reflects a student body that often takes time to find their path, with many working part-time jobs given the school's practical approach to education. Weekend social life centers around residence halls and local spots in New Rochelle, plus easy access to New York City's endless entertainment options via Metro-North trains. The Catholic identity provides structure without being overwhelming, and the 15:1 student-faculty ratio means professors actually know your name.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 1,408 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1940

Campus Safety (2023)

26 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Dating Violence	6	3
Rape	3	3
Stalking	4	2
Fondling	2	2
Domestic Violence	1	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 23°–39°F
July Avg: 64°–85°F
Annual Precipitation: 51.2"
Annual Snowfall: 32.7"

Student Demographics

Iona draws students who value a close-knit Catholic education without leaving the New York area. Nearly 78% of students come from in-state, reflecting the university's strong regional reputation among families seeking affordable private education. The student body is diverse, with Hispanic students making up nearly a third of enrollment. Women slightly outnumber men, typical for schools with strong liberal arts and education programs alongside business. About a quarter of students receive Pell Grants, showing Iona serves middle-class families looking for personal attention and Catholic values in higher education.

Men: 46.8%
Women: 53.2%
White: 48.5%
Black: 8.8%
Hispanic: 30.8%
Asian: 2.4%
In-State Students: 77.8%
Pell Grant Recipients: 26.2%

Location

Iona University sits in New Rochelle, just 20 miles north of Manhattan. The suburban campus draws 78% of its students from New York state. New Rochelle offers a blend of residential neighborhoods and waterfront access along Long Island Sound. The Metro North railroad connects students directly to Grand Central Terminal in under an hour. With 2,731 students in a large suburban setting, the university maintains a close-knit feel while providing easy access to New York City internships and cultural opportunities. The surrounding Westchester County area features other colleges and a mix of corporate headquarters. Students considering colleges in New York may also compare Iona University with similar schools in the region.

Address: New Rochelle, New York 10801-1890

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $73,595
Median Earnings (5 years): $69,867
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $45,900
Loan Repayment Rate: 72.5%
Monthly Loan Payment: $276/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $25,999

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Iona University?

Iona University accepts 96.4% of applicants, making it one of the most accessible Division I Catholic universities. The average SAT score is 1120, indicating the school welcomes students with a wide range of academic backgrounds while maintaining its commitment to Catholic education.

How much does Iona University cost after financial aid?

The average net price at Iona University is $27,951, lower than the full cost of $65,150. About 26% of students receive Pell Grants, and the school awards institutional grants averaging $28,273 to help make this Catholic education more affordable.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Iona University?

Iona University maintains a 15:1 student-faculty ratio with 2,731 total students enrolled. This Catholic institution emphasizes personalized attention while offering strong programs in business, reflecting its mission of developing both academic excellence and moral character.

What are the career outcomes for Iona University graduates?

Iona University graduates earn a median salary of $73,595 ten years after graduation with an employment rate of 91.3%. However, only 57.4% of students graduate within six years, suggesting the school serves many students who need additional time to complete their degrees.

Where is Iona University located and what is campus life like?

Iona University sits in New Rochelle, NY, a large suburb about 20 miles from Manhattan. The campus houses 1,408 students and maintains strong Catholic traditions while offering easy access to New York City internships and cultural opportunities.

Is Iona University known for athletics?

Iona University competes in NCAA Division I as the Gaels with 18 varsity sports and 446 total athletes. The school awards $6.2 million in athletic scholarships and has produced notable coaches like Jim Valvano, building a reputation that extends well beyond its 2,731-student enrollment.