Iowa State University

Overview

Iowa State University (ISU) is a public land-grant research university founded in 1858. It was the first land-grant institution in the United States to admit women on an equal basis. Iowa State is a member of the Big 12 Conference.

The university is recognized for its programs in engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, architecture, design, and business. Iowa State maintains significant research infrastructure with numerous research centers and institutes.

The university has a strong tradition in applied sciences and is closely linked to Iowa's agricultural economy and growing technology sectors.

Location

Primary Campus: Ames, Iowa

Ames is a mid-sized city in central Iowa, closely integrated with Iowa State University. The campus is characterized by green spaces, research facilities, and residential areas serving the university community.

Ames is approximately 30 miles north of Des Moines, with convenient access to the Des Moines International Airport and Interstate 35.

Degrees & Academic Programs

Iowa State University offers programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels through multiple colleges:

  • College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
  • College of Business
  • College of Design
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Human Sciences
  • College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • College of Veterinary Medicine

Degree levels offered include bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees (DVM). Specific program availability should be confirmed directly with the university.

Admissions Information

Admission requirements vary by program and degree level. Iowa State evaluates applications based on academic performance, standardized test scores (where applicable), and other program-specific criteria.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS unless they qualify for a waiver.

Official Admissions: admissions.iastate.edu

Tuition & Fees

As a public institution, Iowa State University charges different tuition rates for in-state residents and out-of-state/international students. The following are approximate annual ranges:

In-State Undergraduate (annual): Approximately $8,000 - $10,000

Out-of-State / International Undergraduate (annual): Approximately $28,000 - $34,000

Graduate (varies by program): Approximately $8,000 - $34,000+

Tuition and fees change annually. Students must verify current rates directly with the university. Tuition Information

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Iowa State University offers institutional scholarships, need-based financial aid, work-study programs, and student loans. Graduate students may access teaching and research assistantships that include tuition support and stipends.

International undergraduate students may have limited access to institutional grants. Graduate funding opportunities vary by department.

Financial Aid Office: financialaid.iastate.edu

International Students

Iowa State University enrolls international students from many countries worldwide. The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) provides visa support, immigration advising, orientation programs, and community resources.

English language proficiency documentation is required for most international applicants. The university provides ESL support programs for students who need additional language development.

International Students and Scholars Office: isso.iastate.edu

Accreditation

Iowa State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Individual colleges and professional programs hold additional specialized accreditations from relevant bodies, including AACSB for the College of Business and ABET for engineering programs.

Accreditation details: Iowa State Accreditation

Official Website: www.iastate.edu

Information on this page is compiled from publicly available sources and is provided for general reference only. Tuition, programs, and admission requirements change periodically. Students must verify all details directly with Iowa State University before making any decisions.

Last reviewed: January 2026