Iowa State University
Video Play Icon10 Videos,
20 Photos
Iowa State University Logo

Iowa State University: Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews

Shiksha popularity ranking
Info Icon

#363 in World

#76 in USA

  • Verified IconAuthorized Partner
  • Institute Icon1900 acre campus
  • Estd. 1858
Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 12 Aug '25

Iowa State University
What's new?

Accordion Icon V3

International Student Support at IA State

International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) offers a comprehensive support to international students. It focuses on facilitating the integration and success of international students by providing guidance on immigration compliance, cultural, social, financial, and personal concerns. Additionally, ISSO also assists in maintaining the immigration status and navigating U.S. employment regulations.

Latest Update

BITS Pilani and Iowa State University have announced their partnership to launch a 2+2 undergraduate shared degree program and shared degree programs at the Master's and PhD levels. This agreement will make the way for qualified students from BITS Pilani transferring to ISU for a co-operative Bachelor of Science (BSc) program in Engineering.

An insight into the newly launched program: This 2+2 program will allow students to complete their initial 2 years at BITS Pilani and smoothly transition to Iowa State for the remaining two years. Similarly, for graduate students, it will offer pathways to pursue research-based collaborative degree programs at both institutions. Read more about BITS Pilani and Iowa State University to offer Dual Degree UG and PG Programs from here

Read less

About Iowa State University

Accordion Icon V3
Year of establishment
1858
University website
Go to Website Link Arrow Icon
Student website
Go to Website Link Arrow Icon
Total foreign students
3189
Campus size
1900 acres
No. of campus
1
Scholarships available
19
Endowment value
USD 838 million
Scholarships granted
20513
Scholarship amount granted
USD 194 million
Application fees
USD 65
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
2178
Faculty/Student ratio
18
Male/Female ratio
0.73
UG/PG course ratio
1.78
Total criminal offences
551
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Highlights
Q:   Is Iowa State University good for international students?
A: 

Iowa State University is a major international teaching and research university that emphasizes Science and Technology while valuing Arts and Humanities. The international reputation of Iowa State University draws students from all over the world. During the Fall Semester 2018, the number of international students enrolled at ISU was above 3,500. There are eight colleges of Iowa State University namely:

  • Agriculture and Life Sciences
  • Design
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Graduate
  • Human Science (Formerly Education and Family and Consumer Sciences)

Also Read: Top Reasons to Study in the USA

Q:   What is Iowa State known for?
A: 

Iowa State University is the state's the largest research university, offering 100+ majors, majorly in the Science and Technology fields, including an Engineering programme that is 'practically unrivaled'. Other unique programs of this university are the Aerospace programme and the Journalism and Design schools. Also, the university is among the Top 10% of all accredited, full-time MBA courses in the U.S., according to the 2024 Graduate rankings by a top-ranking publisher in 2024. Also, the university continues to see strong enrollment with 30,000+ students on-campus in Fall 2024 and class of 5,900+ first-year students. The enrollment statistics show growing interest in the university's STEM programs and degrees of the future.

Q:   Is Iowa State a top university?
A: 

Iowa State University ranks at #121 position in the national universities category ranking by a top-ranking publisher Furthermore, Iowa State University QS ranking is #470 in 2025. Considering the world-rankings, then the university is ranked in the Top 500 universities of the world. This university is one of the top universities in Ames, US. It is known worldwide for its excellence in Science and Technology, discovery and innovation, and its student-centered culture with faculty who is dedicated to student success.

Iowa State University Rankings 2025

#363

World level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
Info Icon

#76

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
Info Icon
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Rankings
Q:   Is the University of Iowa better than Iowa State University?
A: 

The University of Iowa as well as Iowa State University are two well-known institutions in US and good abroad options for students. When it comes to rankings, the Iowa State University ranka #121 in Best National Universities, whereas, the University of Iowa ranks at #98 position in 2025

Mentioned below is the comparison between both the universities on the basis of some other parameters that can help you choose the better university for you:

Parameters

University of Iowa

Iowa State University

Acceptance Rate

85%

89%

Average GPA

3.83

3.0

Annual Tuition Fee

INR 23 L - 48 L

INR 20 L - INR 43 L 



Q:   What is Iowa State University ranked in US?
A: 

According to a top-ranking publisher, IA State ranking in the US is #121 in 2025 edition of National University category. For the 2024 edition of National Universities, this university ranks at #115. Though the university’s position has declined in 2025 rankings, this university still ranks in the Top 200 Universities of the US in 2025 as well as 2024.

Iowa State University Admissions Process and Requirements

  • Application fees :USD 50 - 100
  • Type of deadline :Depends on course
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNeeded for few courses
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
Lock Icon
Sign-up to view details
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   What GPA do you need to get into Iowa State University for MS in CS?
A: 

International students must meet the Iowa GPA requirements to get admission to MS in Computer Science program. Mentioned below is the general Iowa State University requirements for MS in CS admission:

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • A 4-year’s bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Academic records / transcripts
  • English language proficiency score: TOEFL iBT: 79 / IELTS: 6.5 / PTE: 53 / Duolingo: 105
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Financial Statement

Check more details about MS in CS in USA from here

Q:   Is GRE required for Iowa State University?
A: 

There is no university-wide requirement that graduate applicants of Iowa State University are required to submit the results of GRE or GMAT. However, most of the programs do require one of these exams. The applicants are advised to check the course page to know about the exact requirements from the official website of Iowa State University. Apart from submitting these scores, other application materials that the applicants have to submit for admission to graduate courses at Iowa State University include Statement of Purpose, English language proficiency score, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.

Q:   Does Iowa State MBA require GMAT?
A: 

Yes, Iowa State University MBA requires a GMAT score. Given below are the application requirements for this course:

  • Online application
  • Resume
  • College transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • GMAT / GRE score
  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test score

Iowa State University
Iowa State University Scholarships for Indian Students

19No. of scholarships available
15.9 LTotal scholarship amount
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships
Q:   Does Iowa State University give full scholarships for international students?
A: 

Some of the scholarships that are offered by ISU to international students are given below:

  • International Merit Awards: These scholarships are awarded to those undergraduate students who have demonstrated strong academic achievement and outstanding talent or achievements. The award of achievement is USD up to USD 40,000 and the award of distinction is up to USD 16,000
  • International Excellence Awards: International first-year students who have been granted admission to ISU will be automatically awarded these renewable merit scholarships for high-achieving applicants on the basis of high school GPA and SAT or ACT score submitted. Under this, President’s Award for International Student Excellence is USD 48,000 and for Dean’s Award for International Students is USD 40,000

Also Read: Scholarships to Study in the USA for International Students 

Q:   What are International Merit Scholarships offered at Iowa State University?
A: 

First-year students at IA State are considered for a limited number of merit scholarships. The scholarship selection is competitive based on a holistic review of SAT / ACT scores and high school marks / grades. Students must complete the OneApp scholarship application in order to be considered for this award. The award amount is given below:

  • Award of Achievement: Up to $40,000 ($5,000 - $10,000 per year)
  • Award Distinction: Up to $16,000 ($2,000 - $4,000 per year)
Q:   What is International Student Excellence Award offered at Iowa State University?
A: 

Iowa State offers International Student Excellence Award to international UG students. These are merit-based scholarships offered to high-achieving applicants based on the high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores submitted during the admissions application process. Note that this scholarship cannot be combined with the International Merit Scholarship. The scholarship award value as per this scholarship is given below:

  • President’s Award for International Student Excellence: $48,000 ($12,000 per year)
  • Dean’s Award for International Student Excellence: $40,000 (10,000 per year)

Iowa State University Popular Courses

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.Sc.
B.E. / B.Tech
More

₹29.51 LGet Fee Details

₹26.34 LGet Fee Details

₹28.38 LGet Fee Details

₹22.95 LGet Fee Details

₹26.34 LGet Fee Details

View AllMS Courses

Iowa State University
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.8/5
Verified Icon19 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 21% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Multi-dimensional
Friendly
Sporty
Internships3.6
Part time work3.7
Post study jobs3.8
Quality of faculty4.2
Student Life4.2
Value for money3.7
Public transportation4.3
Safety4.1
Indian Food3
Permanent Immigration3.5
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2026
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
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
R
Ridhima Verified Icon
M.A. in political science - Batch of 2025
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
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Bachelor of Science in Psychology - Batch of 2026
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
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
N
Netaji meka Verified Icon
MS in Information Systems - Batch of 2020
5
A culturally enriching and academically rewarding experience.
Tips: Transitioning here was an enriching experience. There was definitely a cultural shift in terms of academic expectations, communication style, and lifestyle, but the university provided support through orientation programs and peer mentoring. Over time, I adapted and grew more confident in this multicultural setting. I did receive a partial merit-based scholarship, which was awarded based on my academic records and statement of purpose. It helped reduce my tuition fee significantly and made my education more affordable.
Likes (Part time work): The university offers a vibrant, energetic atmosphere filled with learning, interaction, and personal growth opportunities. My day typically involves attending classes, collaborating on group projects, spending time in the library or labs, and participating in club activities. What I enjoy most is the freedom to explore my interests outside academics. The campus regularly hosts cultural festivals, guest lectures, tech expos, sports events, and hackathons. I often participate in these events as they are great for networking and learning new skills. There are various student-run communities like coding clubs, robotics teams, cultural associations, and language exchange groups, which create a strong sense of belonging and help build meaningful connections.
Dislikes (Quality of faculty): The professors here are not only subject matter experts but also genuinely invested in student success. They are approachable, responsive, and always open to one-on-one discussions or guidance outside of lectures. A unique aspect of the teaching methodology is the integration of theory with practical applications, such as industry-relevant projects, case studies, and collaborative assignments. This hands-on approach makes learning more effective and engaging. Additionally, the faculty team is quite diverse, comprising professionals from different nationalities and academic backgrounds, which brings a wide range of insights and global perspectives into the classroom.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes22 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 70000
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2025Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
C
Chinmayi Gudi Verified Icon
M.S in Chemical Engineering - Batch of 2026
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
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2024Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MS in Statistics - Batch of 2025
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
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
Thumbs Up IconThumbs Down Icon
View All 19 ReviewsRight Arrow Icon

Iowa State University Placements

Visit official career services website External Link Icon
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Placements
Q:   Who are the top employers for Iowa State University graduates?
A: 

Here are some of the top recruiters for Iowa State University MBA graduates:

  • Cargill
  • Conagra Brands
  • Intel
  • Citadel
  • Midwest Asset
  • Walmart 
  • Honeywell
  • General Mills
  • U.S. Bank
  • Pella
  • PIC
Q:   What is the average package for Iowa State University graduates?
A: 

According to Payscale.com, the average salary for IA State University is USD 77,000 per year (Around INR 65 L). The salaries as per the job titles are given as follows:

Job Titles

Average Salary

Software Engineer

USD 84,245

Mechanical Engineer

USD 78,036

Manufacturing Engineer

USD 73,333

Project Engineer

USD 71,666

Q:   What are the 3 top majors at Iowa State University?
A: 

The popular majors at Iowa State University include Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Education; Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services; Engineering; Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, etc.

Iowa State University Cost

Accordion Icon V3
Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(49 courses)
INR 23 L - 45 LGet Fee Details
Duration1 year-4 years
Exam AcceptedPTE: 53 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above, TOEFL: 79 - 100, IELTS: 6.5 - 7, GRE
MBA/PGDM(4 courses)
INR 26 L - 45 LGet Fee Details
Duration1 year-2 years
Exam AcceptedTOEFL: 88 - 100, PTE: 68 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, GMAT, IELTS: 7.5 & Above
B.Sc.(29 courses)
Duration4-5 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above
B.E. / B.Tech(20 courses)
INR 25 L - 28 LGet Fee Details
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above
BBA(14 courses)
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above
MFA(4 courses)
INR 24 L - 26 LGet Fee Details
Duration18 months-3 years
Exam AcceptedTOEFL: 79 - 95, PTE, Duolingo
M.A.(12 courses)
INR 22 L - 26 LGet Fee Details
Duration18 months-4 years
Exam AcceptedPTE, Duolingo, TOEFL: 79 - 100, IELTS: 6 & Above
B.Arch(2 courses)
Duration4-5 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above
BFA(2 courses)
INR 25 L - 28 LGet Fee Details
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 100 & Above
M.Agri.(6 courses)
INR 24 L - 27 LGet Fee Details
Duration1 year-4 years
Exam AcceptedPTE, Duolingo, TOEFL: 79 - 88, IELTS: 6 & Above
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility
Q:   What is the tuition fee in INR for Iowa State University?
A: 

Lowa State tuition for Indian students can be checked from the table given below. However, the total cost to study at IA State is USD 49,326 (Around INR 43.2 lakh).

Particulars

International Student Fees 2025-26

Tuition & fees

USD 32,148 (Around INR 28 L)

On-campus food and housing

USD 10,928 (Around INR 10 L)

Books, course materials, supplies & equipment

USD 800 (Around INR 70k)

Total university expenses

USD 43,876 (Around INR 39 L)

Anticipated personal expenses

USD 5,450 (Around INR 4.8 L)

Q:   Does Iowa State University have an application fee?
A: 

For Iowa State University admissions, international students are required to pay the application fee. The application fee for undergraduate international students is USD 50. On the other hand, Iowa State University application fee for graduate students is USD 100. The documents required to submit Iowa State application are:

Undergraduate Courses

  • Academic records
  • Financial documents
  • Official test results (As applicable)
  • English language proficiency score
  • Passport copy

Graduate Courses

Also Read: College / University Application Process for USA

Q:   Is GRE mandatory for Iowa State University MS in Artificial Intelligence?
A: 

Yes, the GRE is required for Iowa State University MS in Artificial Intelligence course. To get into this course, admission requirements that are needed are:

  • A 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required
  • Academic transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA is needed
  • Proof of English language proficiency: TOEFL iBT: 79 / IELTS 6.5 / PTE score of 53 / Duolingo score of 105
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Financial statement







Iowa State University
Student profile

Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

85%

Hispanic

7%

Asian

4%

Black

2%

UG Student residence

In state

52%

Out of state

44%

Foreign

2%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

21919
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

74

Iowa State University Notable Alumni

Accordion Icon V3
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Alumni
Q:   What famous people have graduated from Iowa State University?
A: 

Here are some of the famous personalities who have studied at IA State University:

  • Lee Teng-hui: Taiwanese Statesman and Agriculturalist
  • Henry A. Wallace: American Politician, Journalist, Farmer, and Businessman
  • LeRoy E. Cain: Aerospace Engineer
  • George Washington Carver: Agricultural Scientist and Inventor
  • Kim Reynolds: Politician
  • Dennis Muilenburg: Engineer, Business Executive and a former President and CEO of Boeing

Iowa State University Vs Drexel University Vs Oregon State University

Accordion Icon V3

Compare Iowa State University with other similar colleges

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.Sc.
B.E. / B.Tech
BBA
MFA
M.A.
B.Arch
BFA
M.Agri.
College1st Year Tuition FeesRanking
INR 22.95 L - 45.39 L#449 QS, 2026
INR 17.36 L - 60.65 L#143 US News, 2026
INR 15.27 L - 34.19 L#46 US News, 2026
INR 13.97 L - 57.16 L#80 US News, 2026
INR 19.8 L - 46.51 L#232 US News, 2026
INR 16.5 L - 28.81 L#73 US News, 2026
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisonsRight Arrow Icon
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Comparisons
Q:   How is Iowa State University compared to the University of Iowa?
A: 

According to student reviews over an unofficial source, here are some of the highlights of Iowa State University and University of Iowa:

  • While both these universities offer Engineering degrees, Iowa State is the state ‘Land Grant’ university with a comprehensive Engineering program. It is also known for its Agricultural, Veterinary, Medicine, and Agronomy / Plant Genetics programs
  • University of Iowa’s Engineering programs have evolved with emphasis in some specialty areas such as Environmental and Hydrology
  • Iowa State University acceptance rate is around 89%, whereas, that of the University of Iowa is around 85%

Iowa State University
Studying in USA

Key Facts About USA

Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Education in USA
school Key Fact Icon
963+
backpack Key Fact Icon
3.38L
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
20 hours per week
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
12 months
Country stats
mapPin Key Fact Icon
Washington D.C.
keyUsers Key Fact Icon
347.28M (2025)
chartMixed Key Fact Icon
2%
letterA Key Fact Icon
English
Weather
October
CF
Popular LocationsMinMax
Boston817
New York1018
Chicago1017
Los Angeles1626
Explore popular study abroad destinations

Iowa State University Campus

Accordion Icon V3
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Others
Q:   Is there any Indian Student Association at IA State?
A: 

Yes, there is one Indian Student Association at Iowa State. It is a vibrant community of students of Indian origin studying at this university. It is dedicated to promoting Indian culture, traditions, and values while providing a platform for students to connect and make new friends. It hosts events like Diwali, Holi, Desi Night, and Dandiya Night. It also conducts orientation of new students coming to study at this university.

Q:   Where is Iowa State University located?
A: 

IA State University is located in the heart of the Midwest in Ames, Iowa. Recently, Ames was named one of America's most livable small cities. Also, Iowa State's campus has been called one of the Top 25 beautiful campuses in the country. While studying at this university, students can go to Broadway musicals, cultural events, concerts, and Big 12 Conference events and can also experience dozens of local restaurants and shops, bowling alleys, movie theatres, etc. Also, there are 800+ student organizations at the campus.

Q:   How much does housing cost in Iowa State?
A: 

The housing price details for University in Iowa State is given below:

  • Traditional Residence Halls: USD 5,500 – USD 7,000
  • Wallace & Wilson: USD 4,800 – USD 6,000
  • Suites & Geoffroy Hall: USD 7,300 – USD 8,400
  • Frederiksen Court Apartments: USD 5,400 – USD 7,400

Iowa State University Research

Accordion Icon V3
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Additional Details 2
Q:   Is Iowa State an R1 University?
A: 

IA State University is a student-centric leading land grant university recognised worldwide for excellence in Science & Technology, discovery & innovation. The university offers more than 100 UG, over 110 PG and nearly 85 Doctoral courses. Iowa State is established as an R1: Doctoral University with world-class scholars tackling challenges with innovative research and solutions. The university welcomes international students as well. A total of 2,800+ international students are enrolled in Fall 2024, comprising 9.5% of the total student enrollment.

Iowa State University Acceptance Rate

Accordion Icon V3
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Additional Details
Q:   What do international students require to apply to Iowa State?
A: 

First-year international applicants aiming to apply to IA State University must have passed high school. Additionally, they must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, one must also complete these high-school courses:

  • Four years of English
  • Three years of Science
  • Three years of Math
  • Two years of Social Studies

Additionally, SAT / ACT scores are also required for UG studies admission. However, students who get at least a 1200 on the SAT or a 25 Composite score on the ACT shall be automatically considered to meet the 3.0 GPA requirement. Also, students are required to meet the English language proficiency requirement.

Graduate applicants are required to have a Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Many programs may require GMAT / GRE scores, so check with the official website of the university to know the details.

Q:   Is Iowa State University hard to get into?
A: 

Iowa State University acceptance rate is around 89%. As the acceptance rate is not moderately high then it can be said that Iowa State is less selective when it comes to admissions. So, as long as an applicant meets the entry and application requirements, there is a high chance of getting admitted into Iowa State University.

Iowa State University FAQs for Indian Students

Q:   Does Iowa State require SAT or ACT?
A: 

Though Iowa State University is test-optional for first-year applicants, it must be noted that if international students have graduated from a US high school, they may choose to submit their SAT / ACT score. Whereas, students who have graduated from a foreign school do not need to take these exams. Other Iowa State admission requirements for undergraduate applicants are given below:

  • A minimum of 3.0 GPA
  • High school course requirements
  • English language proficiency requirement: TOEFL iBT 71 / IELTS with an overall score of 6.0 / PTE score of 48, etc.
Q:   What GPA do we need for a Masters degree in Iowa State University Master of Finance?
A: 

Lowa State University Master of Finance admission requirements are given below:

  • A bachelor’s degree is required with a minimum of 3.0 GPA
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Resume
  • Academic transcripts
Q:   What things should every freshman starting at Iowa State University know?
A: 

As per the student reviews at IA State University, the following things must be kept in mind:

  • Go out of the university's campus once in a while and check out Ames as a city. Check out the local parks, shop downtown, and interact with the locals
  • Volunteer as this helps students to make valuable contacts. It also boosts the resume
  • Attend IA State Sporting events
  • Also, get a part-time job
Q:   What do international students need to get into Iowa State University?
A: 

To get into IA State University, first-year international applicants are required to have the following:

  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 in high school
  • SAT / ACT (not required for admission)
  • English language proficiency requirement: TOEFL / IELTS / PTE / Duolingo scores are required
  • Academic transcripts
  • Bank statement or sponsor letter confirming USD 47,600
  • Copy of passport

For international graduate students, a bachelor's degree is required. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. English language proficiency scores must also be submitted

Q:   What is needed to apply to Iowa State?
A: 

Iowa State University Indian applicants of UG course are required to upload the following documents with their application:

  • Academic transcripts
  • English language proficiency score
  • A bank statement showing a minimum balance of USD 47,600 (Around INR 40 lakh)

Indian applicants at the PG level are required to have a Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. A few of the documents that the applicants are required to submit are:

  • Official transcripts
  • Evidence of English language proficiency score
  • GRE / GMAT score
  • 500-word Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of recommendations (as applicable)
  • Financial documents 
Q:   What are the Automatic Scholarships for international students at Iowa State University?
A: 

International students admitted to Iowa State are automatically awarded renewable scholarships on the basis of their high school GPA and SAT and ACT scores. These are known as International Student Excellent Award. This scholarship cannot be combined with International Merit Scholarship. The scholarship award values are:

  • President's Award for International Student Excellence: USD 48,000 (USD 12,000 per year)
  • Dean's Award for International Student Excellence: USD 40,000 (Per year USD 10,000)
Q:   What are the English language proficiency requirements for Indian applicants at IA state?
A: 

Indian applicants thinking to take admission to University in Iowa State must submit the English language proficiency requirements. They can submit the test scores like IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo. Minimum test scores required in these tests are:

Tests

UG Scores

PG Scores

IELTS

Overall 6.0 with sub-scores of 5.5 or above

Overall 6.5

Duolingo

100

105 (Fall 2025), 115 (Spring 2026)

PTE

48

53

TOEFL

71 on IBT with a 17 or above on the Speaking and Writing sections

79

qna

Comments

qna

Iowa State University

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 months ago

Iowa State University acceptance rate stands at 88.66%, meaning that out of every students who apply to the Iowa State admissions, the university is likely to admit around 88-89 of the applicants and offer them the opportunity to enroll on the ISU campus. Thus, it can be concluded that the admissio

...Read more

R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Iowa State University accepts students from all around the globe, with various ethnic and racial backgrounds. The student demographics for ISU can be checked from the table below:

Ethnic/Racial Group 

Headcount 

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic 

15 

American Indian or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic 

36 

Black or African American, non-Hispanic 

623 

Two or more races, non-Hispanic 

836 

Nonresidents 

955 

Asian, non-Hispanic 

1,099 

Race and/or ethnicity unknown 

1,140 

Hispanic/Latino 

1,801 

White, non-Hispanic 

19,123 

Total 

25,628 

R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Iowa offers 100+ bachelor's degrees and 100+ master's programs. Some of the most popular majors at Iowa State University, along with the percentage of degree recipients for the same is given below:

Bachelor’s degree 

% 

Master’s degree 

% 

Mechanical Engineering 

5.5% 

Information Technology 

14.1% 

General Marketing & Marketing Management 

5.12% 

Human Computer Interaction 

5.39% 

Kinesiology & Exercise Science 

3.87% 

Dietetics 

4.93% 

General Psychology 

3.8% 

Accounting 

4.47% 

General Animal Sciences 

3.59% 

Bioengineering & Biomedical Engineering 

4.13% 

General Finance 

3.28% 

General Biomedical Sciences 

3.56% 

R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

The latest Iowa State University cost for on-campus housing is given below:

Type of Housing 

2025-26 Rates 

Barton, Lyon, Friley, Freeman, Oak, Linden, Roberts, etc. 

Double, No AC: USD 5,516 (INR 4.7L) 

Double, with AC: USD 5,952 (INR 5L) 

Single, no AC: USD 6,600 (INR 5.6L) 

Single, with AC: USD 7,032 (INR 6L) 

Wallace & Wilson 

USD 4,868 – 5,952 (INR 4.1L - 5L) 

Suites & Geoffroy Hall 

USD 7,300 – 8,386 (INR 6.2L - 7.1L) 

Frederiksen Court Apartments 

USD 5,430 – 7,359 (INR 4.6L - 6.2L) 

Schilletter and University Village Apartments 

USD 3,839 – 7,679 (INR 3.2L - 6.5L) 

1 USD = INR 85.50 

R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 7 months ago

According to Shiksha, the overall rating of Iowa State University is 3.7. Some of the component ratings for this university include 4.1 for student life, 4.4 for public transportation, 4.1 for quality of faculty, 3.9 for part-time work. Some of the reviews posted by students on Shiksha, here are som

...Read more

H

Himanshi Shekhar

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

author image
Kanishk Aggarwal

Study Abroad Expert

Kanishk Aggarwal is a content writer at Shiksha.com, creating content for universities abroad. Having pursued an M.Sc. in Forensic Science from GD Goenka University, Gurugram, he has been creating content across diverse domains. When not guiding stud...Read Full Bio

Iowa State University

Iowa State University Others(1)Front View
Iowa State University Others(2)Aerial View
Iowa State University Others(3)Lecture Hall
Iowa State University Others(1)
Iowa State University Others(2)

Iowa State University
Location

Accordion Icon V3
University CityAmes, Iowa, USA
Size of citySmall
Population of City66,191

Iowa State University
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
Iowa State University CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

2433 Union Drive Ames, IA 50011-2042, USA

Visit official site External Link Icon

Iowa State University
Contact Information

Address

Ames, IA 50011, United States
Ames ( Iowa)

Go to College Website ->