Iowa State University

ISU Overview

Iowa State University (ISU) is a four-year, public school located in Ames, IA. It is classified as Research University with very high research activity by Carnegie Classification, also known as R1 University. You can compare their tuition and admission statistics at R1 University comparison page.

The ISU's tuition & fees is $10,787 for Iowa residents and $28,881 for out-of-state students for the academic year 2024-2025. 73% of the enrolled undergraduates have received grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of $10,270.

The school has a total enrollment of 30,380 and the students to faculty ratio is 18 to 1 (5.56%).

ISU's acceptance rate is 88.66% and the yield (enrollment rate) is 28.84%. The median SAT score is 1250 and the ACT score is 24.

ISU ranked 156th in National Universities and 5th in Iowa Colleges rankings. Iowa State University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

Explore Iowa State University

2025 Tuition & Fees and 2026 Estimation

For undergraduate programs, the 2025 tuition & fees of Iowa State University is $10,787 for in-state students and $28,881 for out-of-state students. For graduate programs, its 2025 tuition & fees is $12,967 for in-state students and $30,577 for out-of-state students.

The estimated 2026 tuition & fees for prospective students is $11,085 for Iowa residents and $30,131 for out-of-state students based on the current year tuition changes from last year. The estimated 2026 graduate school tuition & fees is $13,504 for Iowa residents and $31,906 for out-of-state students.

In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$10,787$28,881
Graduate$12,967$30,577
In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$11,085$30,131
Graduate$13,504$31,906

The estimation for 2025-2026 tuition costs is based on the cost change rates of last year.

Admission Key Statistics

Acceptance Rate »88.66% Acceptance Rate / 28.84% Yield
Test Scores »1,250 SAT / 24 ACT
Graduation Rate »75%
Transfer-out Rate19%
Retention Rate88%(full-time), 82% (part-time)
Student to Faculty Ratio5.56% (18 to 1)
Student Population »30,380 (25,628 undergraduate)
Average Financial Aid »$10,270

Data source: IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), College Scorecard

Learning Opportunities and Campus Services

Iowa State University offers online classes (distance learning opportunities) for both undergraduate and graduate programs. It has ROTC programs and offers teacher certification programs designed to prepare students to meet the requirements for certification as teachers.

Special Learning Opportunities at ISU
Learning Opportunities
ROTCArmy, NAVY, Air Force
Weekend/Evening CollegeYes
Teacher CertificationYes
Study AbroadYes
On-Campus Services
Academic/career counseling serviceYes
Employment services for studentsYes
Placement services for completersYes
On-campus day care for students' childrenYes

Iowa State University Directory Information

Address1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011-2103
Phone515-294-4111
WEBSchool's Website
AdmissionAdmission Information
Online ApplicationApply Online
Financial AidDeadlines and Applications
Net Price CalculatorNet Price Calculator
Veterans TuitionVeterans Benefit Information
AthleticAthletic Team Information
Disability ServiceDisability Services
School Typefour-year, public
Carnegie CategoryR1 Universities
Highest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree

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