Overview
University of Iowa is a accessible public four-year institution in Iowa City, Iowa. The school accepts 86.0% of applicants and enrolls 21,691 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 86.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,235
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,130–1,340
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 21,691
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
You can apply to University of Iowa through the Common Application, with deadlines of February 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission. The application requires your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Engineering programs at Iowa are significantly more competitive than general admission, particularly industrial and electrical engineering. Nursing also has selective admission with additional prerequisites and application requirements beyond the standard university application. Business direct admission requires higher academic credentials, though you can apply to the business school after completing prerequisite courses.
Housing fills quickly, especially in the newer residence halls like Catlett and Petersen. Submit your housing application immediately after being admitted rather than waiting until you decide to enroll. The university guarantees housing for first-year students who apply by the deadline.
Registration for orientation happens in March for fall students. You will register for classes during orientation, and popular courses fill fast. Come prepared with backup options, especially for general education requirements. Academic advisors will help you plan your schedule, but research your degree requirements beforehand.
Iowa City winters are harsh, so bring appropriate clothing. The campus is large and walkable, but you will spend significant time outdoors between buildings. The Iowa River runs through campus, creating separate east and west sides connected by bridges. Most freshman residence halls are on the east side.
If you are interested in research, reach out to faculty directly during your first semester. Iowa has strong research opportunities for undergraduates across departments. The university also offers extensive study abroad programs, with some of the highest participation rates nationally.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,398/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $10,964
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $32,927
- Students Receiving Aid
- 18%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 73.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $64,762/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 89.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Iowa require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of Iowa has a test-optional policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required but can be submitted to support your application.
What is the application deadline for University of Iowa?
University of Iowa has rolling admissions with a priority deadline of December 1 for fall admission. Applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does University of Iowa offer early decision or early action?
University of Iowa does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through their regular rolling admissions process.
What GPA do you need to transfer to University of Iowa?
Transfer students need a minimum 2.25 GPA from their previous college coursework to be considered for admission to University of Iowa.