Iowa State University
Ames, 🇺🇸 United States Public
#449 QS World #401 THE
#449 QS World #401 THE #401 ARWU
31,105 students Suburban $30.6k - $35.8k/yr
About Iowa State University
Iowa State University, located in Ames, Iowa, is a renowned public land-grant research university established in 1858. It is recognized for its strong academic programs, innovative research, and a student-centered approach that fosters discovery and innovation. With a diverse student body from all 50 states and over 100 countries, Iowa State offers a welcoming environment for international students.
Iowa State University offers a comprehensive array of academic programs across eight colleges, including Agriculture and Life Sciences, Business, Design, Engineering, Health and Human Sciences, and Liberal Arts and Sciences. The university is particularly known for its pioneering work in engineering fields like aerospace and sustainable energy, and its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is a global leader in agricultural innovation. With over 100 majors, minors, and certificates, students can customize their education to align with their interests and career goals.
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) at Iowa State University provides extensive support services, including guidance on immigration compliance, employment regulations, and assistance with social, cultural, financial, and personal concerns. Free tutoring is available for all international students through the Academic Success Center. International students comprise about 7-9% of the total student body, representing over 100 countries, with a significant number coming from China, India, and Malaysia. The university offers numerous student organizations, including multicultural groups and the International Family (iFam), to help international students integrate and connect with the community.
Iowa State University's sprawling campus spans over 1,900 acres in Ames, Iowa, a city consistently ranked as a top college town. Ames offers a blend of urban and rural experiences with local shops, restaurants, and parks, known for its friendly and safe environment. The campus features iconic landmarks like the Campanile and Central Campus, state-of-the-art research facilities, and comfortable residence halls. Convenient transportation options, including major highways and accessibility to Des Moines International Airport, connect Ames to national and international destinations.
Iowa State graduates are highly sought after by employers due to the university's emphasis on practical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving. According to the 2022-23 Career Outcomes Report, 78.6% of bachelor's and 82.8% of master's graduates received job offers within six months of graduation. Top employers include Meta, Google, John Deere, Microsoft, and Amazon. Career Services provides support with resume writing, internship searches, career fairs, and interview preparation. International students in the College of Engineering often pursue co-ops or internships, gaining valuable professional experience in the U.S.
Academics
Iowa State University offers a comprehensive array of academic programs across eight colleges, including Agriculture and Life Sciences, Business, Design, Engineering, Health and Human Sciences, and Liberal Arts and Sciences. The university is particularly known for its pioneering work in engineering fields like aerospace and sustainable energy, and its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is a global leader in agricultural innovation. With over 100 majors, minors, and certificates, students can customize their education to align with their interests and career goals.
International Students
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) at Iowa State University provides extensive support services, including guidance on immigration compliance, employment regulations, and assistance with social, cultural, financial, and personal concerns. Free tutoring is available for all international students through the Academic Success Center. International students comprise about 7-9% of the total student body, representing over 100 countries, with a significant number coming from China, India, and Malaysia. The university offers numerous student organizations, including multicultural groups and the International Family (iFam), to help international students integrate and connect with the community.
Campus & Location
Iowa State University's sprawling campus spans over 1,900 acres in Ames, Iowa, a city consistently ranked as a top college town. Ames offers a blend of urban and rural experiences with local shops, restaurants, and parks, known for its friendly and safe environment. The campus features iconic landmarks like the Campanile and Central Campus, state-of-the-art research facilities, and comfortable residence halls. Convenient transportation options, including major highways and accessibility to Des Moines International Airport, connect Ames to national and international destinations.
Career Outcomes
Iowa State graduates are highly sought after by employers due to the university's emphasis on practical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving. According to the 2022-23 Career Outcomes Report, 78.6% of bachelor's and 82.8% of master's graduates received job offers within six months of graduation. Top employers include Meta, Google, John Deere, Microsoft, and Amazon. Career Services provides support with resume writing, internship searches, career fairs, and interview preparation. International students in the College of Engineering often pursue co-ops or internships, gaining valuable professional experience in the U.S.
Highlights
- Land-grant research university established 1858
- Global leader agricultural innovation
- Strong engineering programs
- Diverse international student body
- Top-ranked college town location
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
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Programs Offered at Iowa State University (31)
Offers programs in:
Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences
Bachelor Programs (14)
Animal Science
STEM
Agriculture
Agriculture
BA degreeBS degreeagricultureagriculture programames university
48 months English Full-time
Horticulture
STEM
Agriculture
Agriculture
agriculturebabachelorbsbsc
48 months English Full-time
Architecture
Architecture
Architecture
architecture degree program abroadbachelor of science in architecturebs in architecturebachelor architecture united statesbachelor in architecture
60 months English Full-time
Finance
STEM
Business
Business
administrationbabachelorbachelor of artsbachelor of science
48 months English Full-time
Journalism and Mass Communication
Communication
Communication
bachelorcommunicationiowajournalismmass
48 months English Full-time
Chemical Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
bachelor in engineeringbachelor engineeringbachelors in engineeringbachelors engineeringbsc in engineering
48 months English Full-time
Agricultural Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
agriculturalbabachelorbachelorsbeng
48 months English Full-time
Materials Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Materials Engineering
materials engineering bachelor Iowa Statematerials science degreeBS materials engineeringmaterials technology programengineering materials undergraduate
48 months English Full-time
Electrical Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
electronics engineeringengineering universityengineering careerbachelor engineeringstudy engineering in ames
48 months English Full-time
Industrial Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
bachelor engineeringbachelor engineering amesbachelor in engineeringbachelor in engineering in united statesbachelor of engineering
48 months English Full-time
Food Science and Human Nutrition
STEM
Food Science
Food Science
food science program in united statesfood science bachelor programstudy food science amesstudy food science in united statesundergraduate food science
48 months English Full-time
Kinesiology
STEM
Health Sciences
Health Sciences
babachelorbengbsbsc
48 months English Full-time
Psychology
Social Sciences
Social Sciences
bs in social sciencesbachelor degree social sciencessocial sciences program united statessocial sciencessocial sciences in ames
48 months English Full-time
Economics
Social Sciences
Social Sciences
undergraduate in social sciencesbachelor's degree social sciencesbachelor social scienceseconomicsundergraduate social sciences
48 months English Full-time
Master Programs (12)
Landscape Architecture
Architecture
Architecture
architecturegraduateiowalandscapemaster
36 months English Full-time
Biochemistry
STEM
Biology
Biology
biochemistrybiologymasterunited states
24 months English Full-time
Business Administration
Business
Business Administration
administrationbusinessbusiness administrationgraduateiowa state university
21 months English Full-time
Business Analytics
STEM
Business
Business
MBA programmasters Business Iowa State UniversityIowa State University Businessinternational Business programdata analyst degree
24 months English Full-time
Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science & IT
computercomputingcsgraduatemaster
24 months English Full-time
Cyber Security
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
computercomputer sciencecybergraduateiowa
24 months English Full-time
Software Engineering
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science & IT
computerengineeringmastersciencesoftware
24 months English Full-time
Aerospace Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
aerospaceaerospace engineeringengineeringgraduateiowa state university
24 months English Full-time
Mechanical Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
engineering program abroadenglish taught master engineering in united statesmaster in engineeringenglish-taught master engineeringinternational engineering master
24 months English Full-time
Environmental Science
STEM
Environmental Science
Environmental Science
masters in environmental sciencemasters of environmental sciencestudy environmental sciencestudy environmental science abroadstudy environmental science in united states
24 months English Full-time
Nutritional Sciences
STEM
Health Sciences
Health Sciences
masters in health scienceshealth sciences mastersstudy health sciences in united statesmasters health sciences in united stateshealth sciences program in ames
24 months English Full-time
Statistics
STEM
Mathematics
Mathematics
graduatemamastermathematicsmba
24 months English Full-time
PhD Programs (5)
Genetics
STEM
Biology
Biology
biologybiosciencesgeneticslifephd
60 months English Full-time
Materials Science and Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
engineeringmaterialsphdsciencestates
60 months English Full-time
Electrical and Computer Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
phd in engineeringdoctoral engineeringstudy engineering in united statesstudy engineering in amesphd engineering united states
60 months English Full-time
Civil Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
phd in engineeringengineering phd degreestudy engineeringstudy engineering in united statesphd engineering in united states
60 months English Full-time
Physics
STEM
Science
Science
phd in sciencephd sciencestudy science in united statesphd science in united statesscience program in ames
48 months English Full-time
Iowa State University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
6+ IELTS
71+ TOEFL
105+ Duolingo
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes August, January
Tuition (per year) $30.6k - $35.8k/yr
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 18:1
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)ABETAACSB InternationalAccrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass CommunicationsLandscape Architectural Accreditation Board, American Society of Landscape Architects
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Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa State University
Common questions from international students considering Iowa State University.
What is the acceptance rate at Iowa State University?
Iowa State University is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does Iowa State University cost for international students?
Tuition at Iowa State University ranges from $30.6k - $35.8k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.
What is Iowa State University ranked globally?
Iowa State University holds the following rankings: QS World #449, Times Higher Education #401, ARWU #401. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does Iowa State University have?
Iowa State University typically requires IELTS 6+ or TOEFL 71+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at Iowa State University?
Yes, Iowa State University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does Iowa State University start its semesters?
Iowa State University has intakes starting in August, January. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does Iowa State University offer?
Iowa State University offers 31+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is Iowa State University located?
Iowa State University is located in Ames, United States 🇺🇸. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for Iowa State University?
For specific details about Iowa State University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does Iowa State University offer?
For specific details about Iowa State University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
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