Overview
Iowa State University is an open admission public four-year institution in Ames, Iowa. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Apply through the Common Application or Iowa State's online application by the priority deadline of February 1 for fall admission. You need to submit your high school transcripts, test scores, and complete the application essay. While Iowa State admits most applicants, certain programs have additional requirements and limited spots.
Engineering programs require strong math and science preparation and may have higher admission standards than the university overall. The College of Engineering reviews applications more selectively, particularly for popular majors like computer science and electrical engineering. Nursing also has competitive admission with specific prerequisite courses required.
Submit your housing application immediately after you're admitted if you want to live on campus. Residence halls fill up quickly, and Iowa State guarantees housing only to students who apply by the May 1 deadline. First-year students must live on campus unless they're married, over 21, or living with family within 50 miles of Ames.
Register for Summer Orientation as soon as you're admitted and have paid your enrollment deposit. During orientation, you'll meet with an academic advisor and register for fall classes. Popular courses fill up fast, so attending an earlier orientation session gives you better class selection.
Iowa State requires all students to have health insurance. You can use your family's plan if it provides adequate coverage in Iowa, or purchase the university's student health plan. International students must purchase the university plan.
The campus sprawls across Ames with over 160 buildings. Download the campus map app before your first visit. Parking permits are required and cost extra. Consider the CyRide bus system, which connects campus to the city and is free for students with ID.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,165/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $10,497
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $27,683
- Students Receiving Aid
- 18%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 75.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,386/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 87.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Iowa State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Iowa State University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Iowa State University?
Iowa State University has rolling admissions with a priority deadline of March 1 for fall semester. Applications received after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does Iowa State University offer early admission programs?
Iowa State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through their rolling admissions system.
What GPA do you need to transfer to Iowa State University?
Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous college coursework to be considered for admission to Iowa State University. Some competitive programs may require higher GPAs.