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University of Iowa

Iowa City, Iowa

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How selective is it?

University of Iowa is in our Accessible tier (75%+ acceptance). Admits the large majority of applicants who meet minimum eligibility requirements.

Third-party estimates ~85%.

Tiers are broad on purpose. Acceptance rates move every cycle, and many schools are more competitive for specific majors than the school overall, so use this as a starting point for your list, not a prediction.

How to use University of Iowa in your college list

This is often a likely or safety option for students who meet the school's eligibility requirements. Still confirm that your intended major is offered and not capped, and note deadlines for housing, scholarships, and financial aid, which can matter more than the admission decision itself.

Building a list across tiers? See all 6 Iowa colleges in our finder, or follow our guide to building a list by score and GPA.

What it's known for

University of Iowa is widely recognized for strengths in the fields below. This reflects peer-assessment rankings and long-standing reputation, not a full list of programs.

Explore related majors: Nursing, Health Sciences, Public Health.

Check the current numbers yourself

For University of Iowa's current test-score and GPA ranges, acceptance rate, and cost, go to the source:

Similar colleges to consider

Schools with a similar selectivity, in the same state, or known for the same fields. A balanced list usually mixes a few reaches, several realistic targets, and at least one or two safeties.

Frequently asked questions

How selective is University of Iowa?+

University of Iowa sits in our "Accessible" tier (75%+ acceptance). Third-party estimates ~85%.

Is University of Iowa hard to get into?+

Admits the large majority of applicants who meet minimum eligibility requirements. Selectivity varies by major and changes every admissions cycle, so treat the tier as a starting point and check University of Iowa's own admissions data for the current year.

What is University of Iowa known for?+

University of Iowa is widely recognized for strengths in Nursing & Health. This reflects reputation and peer-assessment rankings, not a complete list of programs, so confirm that a specific major is offered and how competitive it is.

How do I find University of Iowa's current SAT, ACT, and GPA ranges?+

Search "University of Iowa Common Data Set" and open Section C, which lists the middle 50% of test scores and GPA for the entering class. Our guide "How to Build Your Own College List by Score and GPA" on this site walks through it step by step.

Where is University of Iowa?+

University of Iowa is a public institution in Iowa City, Iowa.

Selectivity tiers and "known for" tags are general guidance compiled from public sources and may be out of date. MajorAtlas isn't affiliated with University of Iowa. Always confirm details with the school.

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