University of Waterloo Vs Iowa State University: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Waterloo Vs Iowa State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Waterloo Vs Iowa State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Waterloo Vs Iowa State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Waterloo Vs Iowa State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State UniversityStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
3.9/5
3.5 Internships
3.2 Part time work
4.3 Post study jobs
4.3 Quality of faculty
4.3 Student Life
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3.8/5
3.6 Internships
3.7 Part time work
3.8 Post study jobs
4.2 Quality of faculty
4.1 Student Life
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State UniversityCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
Waterloo University V/s Iowa State University MS
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State University B.Sc.
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State University B.E. / B.Tech
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State University B.A.
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State University BBA
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Other courses
- MIM (9 courses)
- M.A. (18 courses)
- B.Arch (3 courses)
- MASc (7 courses)
- MEng (5 courses)
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- MBA/PGDM (1 course)
- M.A. (12 courses)
- B.Arch (2 courses)
- MEng (1 course)
- B.Ed (2 courses)
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Waterloo University V/s Iowa State UniversityCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1956
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
1000 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
1858
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
1900 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+4 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
Waterloo University V/s Iowa State UniversityCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
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University of Waterloo Engineering Virtual Tour
UNIVERSITY of WATERLOO Ontario Canada
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Why Waterloo Engineering?
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Country Facts
Study in Canada
Canadian universities offer globally respected qualifications
Access to abundant research programs and a broad range of disciplines
Stringent safety measures ensure a secure campus atmosphere.
Campus services aid students, promoting well-being and academic success.
Stunning landscapes offer a peaceful and picturesque to daily life.
Robust economy provides diverse employment prospects for students.
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
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Student’s views on campus
Views on Waterloo University campus
A
Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Global Business and Digital Arts - Batch of 2026
3.7
Good student friendly environment.
Tips: Waterloo is very student friendly and happening and because of the Indian student organisation here, its made things more comfortable and easy going. The co op programme is useful for industrial and job prospects but the sponsorship here have decreased. Safety is alright other than some cases of theft and pick pocketing.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1800
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 103725
A
Anonymous
Bachelors in Environment and Business - Batch of 2027
3.8
Try not to burn out here.
Tips: Waterloo is a very friendly and exciting place to study with next level academic expectations. The co op opportunities can be absolutely make or break when it comes to career growth and advancement and professors here are among some of the best in terms of expertise, knowledge and experience, so be sure to leave a positive impression. Living near campus is quite expensive but if you find a decent place, you can save up on commute expenses.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1650
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 102175
S
Samriddhi 
Bachelors of Arts in Social Development Studies - Batch of 2026
3.6
Great learning experience.
Tips: Very intense workload but with lots to learn and explore. The campus is super happening and there's always something or the other going on. People are friendly and food options are plenty as well. Transportation can be a bit of a hassle otherwise its good.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2350
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 104500
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Business Administration / Bachelor of Computer Science - Batch of 2026
3.9
One of a kind experience.
Tips: Waterloo is a school that has truly lived up to its name. Great for business and entrepreneurship programs and if you're someone who likes to be on the field or in research. You'll meet like minded individuals and great faculty that can actually make a difference. If you manage a scholarship or part time jobs, you can get good return of investment.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1800
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 103725
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Systems Design Engineering - Batch of 2027
3.9
Pretty nice place to study.
Tips: The university always has a lot going on and everyone is quite friendly and helpful, which really helped me through my initial days here. There is a lot to explore around, and it is ideally safe, but there are increasing incidents of pickpocketing, and it's recommended that you travel in groups if it's late. The city is well connected and there are every industry here as well, out of which a lot of companies come for placements.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1925
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 100650
A
Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies - Batch of 2026
3.8
Learning the ropes in Waterloo.
Tips: I have been exposed to one of the most multi cultural campuses there are, and this has helped me in building connections with people from all over the world. The networking potential is great, and if you acquaint yourself with your professors, they can be quite valuable for LORs and even referrals. There are plenty of Indians and Indian food options as well, and Canada has a welcoming culture, which is seen in the university.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): There were better chances of getting work here a few years ago, but now Canada has increased its restrictions on immigration and jobs for international students. Given a chance, I would certainly like to work here, and there are chances, but you will really need to stand out for companies to take a chance on you.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2125
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 103725
A
Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Sociology - Batch of 2026
3.7
The University of Waterloo offers a global and diverse learning environment.
Tips: I haven't had too many culture changes as I have met people from my city here, which is also an indicator of how global the University of Waterloo truly is. The classes are quite academic, and it's hard to catch up on UPAT times. Also, the transport system can be a bit annoying. Rest, it's a lovely place to learn.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Well, Canada has become increasingly strict with immigration and giving jobs. You'll have better luck with part-time jobs than with finding a full-time opportunity willing to take you in. Be prepared for lots of applications and rejections in the process.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1800
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.8
Great academic environment.
Tips: Waterloo has a great reputation both in and outside Canada, and they take their academics very seriously. Lots of Indian restaurants and supermarts are available all over the place; in fact, there are all sorts of cuisines easily available, as Waterloo has a very international campus. Masters are great here for research purposes, especially. Overall, I am satisfied with my experiences.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2400
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
S
SS 
Bachelor of Science in Science and Business - Batch of 2025
3.9
Highly qualified and friendly faculty.
Tips: The University of Waterloo is very well-reputed, and the campus environment is very global. Lots of people from home as well. Transportation can be a bit unpredictable, and you'll have to walk around a lot to get to classes. The level of education and competencies is high, and you'll be expected to deliver.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1850
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 89850
A
Anonymous
Master of Management Science - Batch of 2026
3.9
Good people and culture.
Tips: Waterloo takes a very modern and structured approach to education. Their co-op programme is one of their selling points, but if you won't be able to handle job hunting with classes, it might not be ideal for you. People are friendly, and you'll see a lot of Indians around. The winters are rough, and the course loads seem to be endless, so be prepared for that. Overall, I am quite satisfied with my experiences.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1750
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 89075
A
Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Peace and Conflict Studies - Batch of 2026
3.6
Accepting and culturally rich place.
Tips: One of the best things about studying at Waterloo is the diversity in course and people. Not many places offer the same level of education, but it's very important to show initiative and participate in classes. The environment is free and accepting and students are expected to have a similar mindset. My professors helped me publish a couple of my papers and I've been part of the debate society.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2650
Prepping time for classes37 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 89850
H
HP 
Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Psychology - Developmental and Communication Science - Batch of 2025
3.9
Comprehensive learning format.
Tips: I chose to come here because of the programs offered, and I haven't been disappointed. My degree allows for a truly comprehensive and detailed analysis of psychology and society, and is great if you are keen on publishing and academia. I have truly helpful professors. The space is limited, and for truly good Indian options, it's better to cook for yourself or find an underrated place a little off the city. Scholarships are available upon inquiry while you apply.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 3300
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 96000
G
Gitika 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Management Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.6
Vibrant campus and highly knowledgeable faculty.
Tips: I have made some great memories here and met some really good people as well. The weather is a little too cold for me to handle, and attendance and deadlines are taken seriously. There are lots of Indians here, and the university has a lot of helpful industry connections.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2775
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 101400
A
Anonymous
Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering - Batch of 2024
4.4
Prerequisites to adapt well and basic requirements.
Tips: Be very active in terms of studying, and be on top of your courses and assignments. You will feel the cultural difference, so be prepared to need some time to adjust to your life here. It is a great university with lots of courses offered. Plan your term courses selection way ahead keeping your work permit and specialisation requirements in mind so as to select the needed course in the term offered and plan it according to courses offered based on which term the professor is available. All this information is available on the University Website. The healthcare infrastructure here is not very good, carry your basic needed medicine along with a doctor's prescription from India. It is a cold country, so be well prepared in terms of warm clothes and gear. Also, bring basic utensils if you are planning to cook your meals, you might not immediately find the kind of utensils you use back home here. Also if wanting to stay off campus, start looking for accommodation well in advance through the Facebook marketplace or other WhatsApp groups present. Living within a 1.5 km of radius University will be a better choice in terms of time spent and winters.
Likes (Post study jobs): We don't need a sponsorship visa to work. Can apply for a Post Graduate Work permit, which has a set of guidelines on the duration of the course, field of study and an English Proficiency IELTS exam which makes you eligible to apply. Stay updated with the guidelines from the government regarding this. You can apply for Post graduate work permit once you are just 2 - 3 months away from graduation. Apply well in advance, once you are eligible as it takes time to get approved.
Dislikes (Part time work): Too many students but too few vacant jobs available. Sometimes job might not hire you as other experienced people are already working. However, start looking for it well in advance. It is unannounced on the University Website when they are hiring for what and which positions. Keep an open eye on it.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1200
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 70000
A
Anonymous
Computational Mathematics - MMath - Batch of 2026
4.2
University of Waterloo is great for STEM and the industry.
Tips: University of Waterloo with its coop programme is a very STEM and industry-oriented university. Many students through their coops will get work experience and skills that they then use to get full-time jobs and a lot do internships also offer students full-time offers if they do well. Overall the courses offered are useful and helpful, but the best part about the university is the coop programme.
Likes (Public transportation): So with your student card, you can use all the public transport in Waterloo for free. There is a bus system that connects very well all across the city to the university and is especially useful in the winter when it's hard to walk outside. There are also tunnels and indoor bridges that connect different campus buildings so it's easier to travel in the winter and there is also a tram that runs between big hubs.
Dislikes (Student Life): I put a 3 on student life because the University of Waterloo is very study-oriented. There is often a lot of work pressure and multiple things at once for students, so we don't get the chance to enjoy other aspects of university life, like events and going out.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2200
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Anonymous
Computational Mathematics - MMath - Batch of 2024
3.4
The university provides a strong community spirit.
Tips: If you are creative and keen on embarking on research, this is a good place to consider. I do feel that it is extremely expensive and although placements were usually pretty good, it's no longer the same because of how strict the policies have become and how difficult it is to immigrate anywhere.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Getting any kind of long-term employment opportunity especially as an Indian is going to be a very tricky and unlikely task. They have become extremely particular and your chances of moving here to immigrate are slim to none. It is better to plan an alternative instead.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 5425
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
S
Sanjay Wadhwa 
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Batch of 2024
3.5
Great experience, the curriculum is good and the faculty is really helpful.
Tips: The University of Waterloo has got to be one of the best experiences I've had so far. You are certain to find people you gel with but it is important to remember that academically, courses are quite hard to keep up with. Also before you commit, you must remember that Canada has become very firm with immigration. The public transportation is flexible and affordable so you can explore the city. Overall, I am satisfied with my experience.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 4525
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Anurag Aggarwal 
Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Physics - Batch of 2025
3.5
Got to explore my potential and grow as a person.
Tips: Students should know that the people are polite and welcoming so you don't need to worry about feeling too out of place. You will be expected to prepare well for your classes to keep up with your coursework. Finding jobs is a big challenge and I feel it has become extremely expensive to survive here so if you can avoid Canada then you should consider that option.
Dislikes (Internships): You are going to have a hard time finding internships here since the college doesn't actively provide internships for students, you are left to your own devices which becomes even harder as we are international students and our options become limited.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 4775
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 75950
A
Ayush 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Nanotechnology Engineering - Batch of 2024
3.3
Good experience and good, understanding and thoughtful faculty.
Tips: Waterloo has a big community and it really prioritises education and academics. You will be expected to have a self-reliant attitude and engage yourself in other activities and extracurriculars necessary for personality development. The city is beautiful and you should explore it.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 4425
Prepping time for classes27 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Anonymous
Statistics - MMath - Batch of 2024
3.6
University of Waterloo taught me hard work and resilience.
Tips: It is a warm and welcoming campus at least in my case. I chose this university because of its reputation but now I feel that it is a better idea to study outside Canada itself. Quality of learning is great and you will be expected to work very hard from the first week itself. The faculty will help you in every step towards your journey.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Canada has become increasingly strict when it comes to immigration and allowing foreigners especially Indians to settled in which is why there are very little chances to get a well paid job here at least right now. I am pretty grateful to be here as well.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 4250
Prepping time for classes28 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
Views on Iowa State University campus
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Psychology - Batch of 2026
Offered by Iowa State University
3.6
Friendly and welcoming people.
Tips: I would tell anyone planning on pursuing their education here to come with an open mind. Iowa State is pretty unconventional in a lot of ways, but studying here has its benefits as well. Even though society is more individualistic here, there are plenty of student communities. The admission process is very straightforward, and if you have a few good letters of recommendation and good test scores, you can try applying for scholarships if needed.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2925
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 72100
A
Anonymous
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2026
Offered by Iowa State University
3.9
Do not come to this university if you have no scholarship.
Tips: This place has been pretty transformative, personally speaking, but I would not recommend coming here without an adequate scholarship. Moreover, there are no more job prospects for international students or immigrants here, so you ought to plan according. Professors reward participation and take their feedback seriously, as this will help you in the long run. Once you graduate, the college has little to no further involvement, so you will have to fend for yourself.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3250
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 75950
A
Anonymous
MS in Statistics - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.7
It is difficult to find part-time jobs especially for international students.
Tips: I had to learn to fend for myself after coming here, which is expected from most, but I would advise you to double-check all your essentials, especially when it comes to utilities and dedication, as you would be in a bind if you try to rely on healthcare while in college.
Dislikes (Part time work): Part-time jobs are difficult for international students as a whole because of all the restrictions placed with regard to permits and legality. There used to be more openings up until a few years ago, which have closed down. You can possibly help out on campus.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2350
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
R
Ridhima 
M.A. in political science - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.9
Iowa State University is an underrated yet good place to plan for your higher studies.
Tips: Iowa State University is an underrated yet good place to plan for your higher studies. The lifestyle is calmer and more slow-paced than other colleges, and you can also expect to be a little on the outskirts of the city, but I feel this adds to the charm of the place. Living is quite affordable, and the faculty is very passionate and helpful. I feel I have made the right choice.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3075
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 70550
C
Chinmayi Gudi 
M.S in Chemical Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by Iowa State University
4.3
Iowa State University: A research institute that deserves more recognition.
Tips: This is a research-focused institute where you will find students from all over the world. They provide ample scholarships and on-campus working opportunities. The people here are great and extremely supportive. They will go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable. Overall, I am satisfied with my experience here.
Likes (Public transportation): I found the local public transportation system to be very convenient for travel within the city. Buses start at around 6 in the morning and go on till 10 PM. There is excellent connectivity between different parts of the campus town.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): The career fair here mainly targets Bachelor's and Masters degree students. Companies that sponsor visas and support international students are marked separately for ease of locating them. Several companies sponsor visas and support a comfortable lifestyle.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 950
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 77500
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.0
A transition to the new environment and culture shift.
Tips: Moving to a new country was quite difficult. The cultural shift was huge I had to adapt to new social norms, academic expectations and even different daily routines. However I found that choosing my friends and major makes a huge difference so just make sure to choose your friends wisely.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 575
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
S
Sohan Appalabhaktula 
Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.1
A good public college with an excellent course and faculty.
Tips: Before joining this college students should know that there is a culture shift as the diversity in the college is very low compared to others. I received a scholarship of $11,000 a year just before registering for the college for SAT scoring and grades. I am satisfied with my university course for the most part as it is well made.
Likes (Student Life): I spend my day in college mainly doing homework and then socializing with my friends. What I enjoy the most about my college life is being able to meet new people from different parts of the world. There are many events on campus, including multicultural events. The campus is enjoyable and is not too stressful.
Dislikes (Part time work): On campus jobs are very limited for anything other than dining center jobs. Off campus opportunities are good as there are many stores and companies situated around campus that allow students to work with little to no experience. Part time work is typically easy to manage as hours can be personally chosen to match the schedule. The average payout for part time work is around $12-$13 per hour.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 300
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
BS in Apparel Merchandising, Design - Batch of 2027
Offered by Iowa State University
4.2
Food options are not too good.
Tips: I personally feel, that students should know that it's okay to come without a very clear idea in terms of academics since a lot of people come as open major or switch later. Know your interests, be involved, find your people, and find a good balance in academics and activities.
Likes (Part time work): I recently got a part-time job at Iowa State and I really enjoy it. My manager is really helpful and cooperative. I do find managing my academics and part-time work quite easy. The average payout is $15 per hour for 10-20 hrs per week. There are a lot of opportunities on campus, but it's necessary to apply on time.
Dislikes (Indian Food): I personally do not like the food options at Iowa State. I wish there could be more Indian food preferences. Throughout the week I find myself eating out a lot which is quite unhealthy. I find the dining hall food to be stale a lot of the time and I wish they could work on that.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 300
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Accounting - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
4.3
Learning to balance school life
Tips: This school is very fun, but you need to make sure you have a good balance between academics and extracurricular. There is definitely a culture shift as you have a lot more freedom. I did get some private scholarships through the Iowa State scholarship portals.
Likes (Part time work): There are a lot of on-campus jobs as well as businesses off-campus for jobs. It is very manageable to work on campus while studying. We get $12/hour. Working on campus allows you to study and work at the same time as many jobs allow students to do that.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): It is still pretty difficult for F1 visa holders to find permanent jobs here. There are some opportunities, but I don't think the school does a great job of helping you find permanent jobs here especially based on your major. You really need to be a stem major to land a permanent job.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2000
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
N
Nehal Sankaranthi 
BA in Womens and Gender Studies - Batch of 2024
Offered by Iowa State University
2.5
Internship are available but doesn't pay well.
Tips: Dietary acculturation is common - a sudden change in diet and nutrients based on what is available to you can be tricky to deal with. Scope out your local multicultural food options through additional grocery stores and food pantries to help find food items closer to ones from home!
Likes (Internships): There are some internships available but the pay is low or it is only available for academic credit with no other compensation - internships are hard to find without the proper support from advisors and connections. Finding internships is only possible through extensive time of research and using connections.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There is only one Indian restaurant that is average in quality and does not have much variety in terms of cuisine - it is a little pricy as well. There is a grocery store with some meal options that are alright but not the most authentic for Indian food.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 400
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.4
Many ups, many downs, stressful, but decent
Tips: I was very homesick when I first came to Iowa State. I learned by putting myself around people by joining extracurriculars helped me a lot. Also, finding good study space, eating well, staying fit and taking care of yourself helps a lot. I am decently satisfied with the university.
Likes (Internships): I have not had any guidance from the university in terms of internships. My elder sister was the one who I looked to for guidance. The available internships now in my new college (CALS) are very much relevant to Industrial Technology. Also, my advisors are very helpful with internships.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): I have enjoyed every job that I have worked at as a student; my only thing is that I found the jobs by doing thorough research myself & not through help from the university. They can definitely be better at helping their students through communication.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1500
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
S
Shreshta Anupindi 
Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2027
Offered by Iowa State University
3.1
Public transportation is amazing.
Tips: Students usually tend to have an idea of how they want to be in college but most of us go through different transitions in university. I have changed compared to what I was in high school and I try to be equally invested in academics and co-curriculum. Most of the students get a merit scholarship and there are more scholarships, differing based on different colleges and each one has a different requirement. You can track these through OneApp Iowa State and it is highly recommended to keep an eye on it so they don't get full.
I am satisfied with my academics and college life until now.
Likes (Public transportation): There is free bus transportation for ISU students in most parts of the city. There are a lot of buses running on different routes throughout the day which takes you to most of the places that students mostly visit and it is free for all students. There are also rental cars available for students but they have certain requirements such as age and a valid license. There are bus services that go from Games to different states nearby like Minnesota or Chicago which are affordable if booked in time.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There is only one Indian restaurant in the area and it is very rare to find Indian food in dining centres. Cooking in the dorms is hard, we do it once in a while but it is definitely easier off campus in apartments. I would prefer home food but since it is hard to do it every day while living in dorms, we rely mostly on dining food or ordering from outside.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 675
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
S
Sushant Chiramana 
Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
4.1
College of opportunity for a bright future
Tips: Personally, I have had a proper transition after coming here as the university has conducted various events and orientations to familiarize me with the university events before coming here. The city is culturally diverse hence giving freedom to anyone to explore their own or other cultures. It is easy to receive scholarships through the college website named "OneApp" where different opportunities are present to help pay for your tuition. I have used these opportunities during my time here. Overall, I am very satisfied with my time at Iowa State because of the friends and connections I have made here inside and outside my course. My course has helped me develop various skills, social and technical.
Likes (Part time work): There is availability of on-campus jobs in every department and off-campus opportunities are very well presented from restaurants to supermarkets to different research and tutoring. Depending on the work schedules, it can be easy to manage both academics and work at the same time.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are various options for different restaurants near campus. Fast food, Mexican, and different Asian foods are really good. It is difficult to find good Indian food in Ames. There are really good Indian restaurants outside of Ames, but computing outside of Ames can be a little difficult. I normally prefer to cook myself in my apartments.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 950
Prepping time for classes41 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
T
Tejal Devshetwar 
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by Iowa State University
4.1
A good college for the cost paid
Tips: Transition is difficult for a week to adjust to how assignment submissions work, the method of teaching, and more importantly how the semester is planned. Other than that everything felt easy. I am satisfied with my university and the curriculum here as well. Scholarships are available on OneApp and a lot of them are open to international students. I felt it was comparatively cheaper than other colleges.
Likes (Public transportation): Free public transportation for university students. The bus goes around in the whole city and to a lot of main locations like Walmart, and malls. Buses are on time and the schedule is visible on Google Maps as well. We just need to show our i-cars and we don't need to pay each time. We mostly use the bus to travel everywhere. Overall it is great.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Only one restaurant for Indian food. Even the food quality is average. People with spice tolerance may not have that many options. The next restaurant available is in Des Moines. But they do have many options for Indian food. There are a total of 10 vegetarian dishes for the restaurant in Games.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 900
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 72875
T
Tanvi M 
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
4.2
Embracing Excellence: The Iowa State University Experience
Tips: Before joining Iowa State University students should know about diverse programs vibrant campus life and research focus. The transition involved adapting to Midwestern culture. Scholarships based on merit or need provide significant financial support. Highly satisfied with the university course and country.
Likes (Part time work): I rated 5 on part-time work due to plentiful opportunities on and off campus including roles like programmes and undergraduate research assistants. Balancing work and academics is manageable. The average payout is good offering financial support.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Very limited Indian restaurants. In the locality there's only one Indian restaurant with average quality. Prices vary but it's generally affordable. I prefer cooking at home for more variety and control over ingredients.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 900
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 77000
R
Rao Kumar 
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by Iowa State University
4.8
Paradise: A Heaven for Personal and Acedemic growth
Tips: It would be great if students coming here have LinkedIn and have some experience they want to showcase to get an on-campus job. Have a good relationship with the lecturers as they help you a lot, especially in getting the Teaching and Research assistants jobs. Learn how to cook as it saves lots of money.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2400
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.5
Different experience but worth it.
Tips: If you are coming from a different country, this college is going to be a bit of a culture shock and it will take some time to sink in. Do apply for scholarships do not miss out on any (they are very important). Always keep an eye on OneApp and their opening for scholarships. It is a great university, definitely worth checking out.
Likes (Part time work): It is easier to find an on-campus job and work part-time along with studies. Since there is not much competition with on-campus jobs it is not stressful at all. It pays you enough to live by yourself and I think it is pretty decent to manage housing and food expenses.
Dislikes (Internships): There is a good amount of guidance in terms of job search and career fairs on campus. There are university portals like (cyhire) and advice from professionals to approach the job search. But, being an international student it is indeed, hard to find a job. It is definitely not impossible but you have to put in a lot of time and effort to find the right job and the right company.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 200
Prepping time for classes18 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 82900
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics - Batch of 2025
Offered by Iowa State University
3.8
Vast campus, myriad opportunities!
Tips: I was pretty much prepared that there were going to be a lot of new things here which might not be as common as they are back at home. One thing that people could find different would be the idea of individuals. Most of the people here are by themselves and self-reliant. I have definitely transitioned a lot and become a much more confident and independent person. One thing to remember is to come here with an open and acceptable mind. For international students, there are a lot of scholarship opportunities, so do not miss out on those. There would be different sits for scholarships and it is possible that different colleges provide different scholarships specifically for their students so be proactive and always keep an eye on those. The university is great and I go to a college which is ranked well and my coursework seems equally interesting since there is a variety of different things that I always learn.
Likes (Public transportation): The university has buses going across the city which are free for all Iowa State Students. Even for non-students, every bus ride can be as cheap as only $1! These buses run starting early in the morning and going till later at night, and even when there are no buses, there are a couple of other different options to travel which are free for all students.
Dislikes (Internships): University has a career fair every semester where recruiters from different companies come to the university and the students get to talk to them one-on-one. This helps students to know different companies, what they provide, what they expect, etc. International students have a hard time finding internships or jobs since not every company sponsors them. Constant rejections can make students doubt themselves but don't worry because after a while we all get used to it, but don't give up either! It might take time but you will surely find something for yourself at some point, we all do!
Since I am a business analytics major with an economics minor, I do have different options open for me, but again restrictions like finding sponsorship makes it hard to find the right company. All I do is keep trying. Another tip for all new students would be to make as many connections as possible. Career fair might not be interesting for everyone, but just go to them and network as much as you can and talk to recruiters, know them well, connect with them on linkedin, follow them up on emails. Networking and making new connections can help find jobs so much more than we think it can!
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 650
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
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