ISU Acceptance Rate

Iowa State University of Science and Technology, located in Ames, Iowa, is a prominent public research university known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and technology. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Iowa State reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 90.2%, reflecting its commitment to accessibility while maintaining academic standards. This rate is influenced by factors such as a growing applicant pool, increased interest in STEM fields, and the university’s reputation as a land-grant institution. Iowa State publishes transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, providing reliable insights into its selectivity and enrollment trends.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 90.2% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 21,000 applicants and 19,000 admitted students, consistent with prior years.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Data unavailable for the most recent cycle; historically, early applicants see a slightly higher acceptance rate, estimated at 92.0%, due to demonstrated interest.
• International Student Rate: Specific data for Class of 2028 unavailable; based on historical trends, the rate is estimated at 85.0%, reflecting Iowa State’s welcoming policies for global applicants.

Over the past few years, Iowa State’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 88-92%, indicating a balance between accessibility and moderate selectivity. The university has seen a steady increase in applications, particularly in high-demand programs like engineering, though it does not employ an early decision binding option that often lowers acceptance rates at more competitive institutions. Compared to peer public universities in the Midwest, such as the University of Iowa or University of Nebraska, Iowa State’s selectivity is less stringent, prioritizing broader access to education. International student admissions remain a key focus, with ongoing efforts to diversify the student body. For the most accurate and updated statistics, prospective students are encouraged to visit the official Iowa State admissions website at www.admissions.iastate.edu.