University of Iowa Admission Chances
Quick answer
University of Iowa in Iowa City, IA admits about 84% of applicants (admitted students score 1130–1330 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a target-to-safety for students near its published range for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.
Key facts
- Acceptance rate
- 84%
- SAT (mid-50%)
- 1130–1330
- Test policy
- Test-optional
- In-state tuition
- $11,283
- Out-of-state tuition
- $33,371
- Avg. net price
- $22,531
- Undergrads
- 22,264
- Setting
- Urban
- Location
- Iowa City, IA
Is University of Iowa a reach for you?
Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.
| Applicant | SAT / GPA | Verdict | Est. chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below average | 1150 / 3.3 | Target | 71% |
| Average | 1300 / 3.6 | Safety | 100% |
| Above average | 1400 / 3.8 | Safety | 100% |
| Strong | 1520 / 3.9 | Safety | 100% |
Should you apply to University of Iowa?
- →If your SAT is above 1330 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), University of Iowa is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
- →If your SAT falls within its 1130–1330 middle 50%, treat University of Iowa as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
- →If your SAT is below 1130, University of Iowa is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.
Weighing fit? Compare University of Iowa with Framingham State University, Point Loma Nazarene University, Hanover College.
Calculate your real chances at University of Iowa
Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.
Calculate my chances →Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.
Early admission at University of Iowa
University of Iowa offers these early-application options. Applying early can boost your odds — confirm exact deadlines on University of Iowa's admissions site.
| Early Action | Non-binding — apply early, decide later. A modest edge with no commitment. |
University of Iowa admissions FAQ
Can I get into University of Iowa?
University of Iowa admits about 84% of applicants, so students near its published GPA and SAT range have a solid chance. Admitted students typically score 1130–1330 on the SAT (middle 50%). Run your numbers in the free chances calculator below to see where you land.
What are my chances of getting into University of Iowa?
Your chances of getting into University of Iowa depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.
Should I apply to University of Iowa?
Apply to University of Iowa if your SAT is at or above its 1130–1330 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.
Is University of Iowa a reach school?
University of Iowa admits about 84% of applicants, so for students near or above its mid-range it's typically a target or safety rather than a reach.
What SAT score do you need for University of Iowa?
Admitted students at University of Iowa typically score between 1130 and 1330 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1330 strengthens your odds.
What is University of Iowa's acceptance rate?
University of Iowa accepts approximately 84% of applicants.
Does University of Iowa offer Early Decision or Early Action?
University of Iowa offers Early Action. Early Action is non-binding, so you can apply early and still compare offers. Always confirm deadlines on University of Iowa's admissions site.
Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on University of Iowa's official admissions site.