University of Iowa: Details, Rankings, Tuition, and More

The University of Iowa represents a pillar of higher education in the Midwestern region of the US. With respected faculty, quality academic programs, and a commitment to innovation, the University of Iowa finds its way into many applications from students globally.The University of Iowa has degrees that allow you to take your next career step while allowing for flexibility in the ever-changing demands of employers!

With all of the picturesque, fun, and active University of Iowa campus to consider, the University of Iowa blends both tradition with modern, exciting learning opportunities, and community spirit with contemporary research facilities. With an ever-growing University of Iowa course catalog and easy-to-access options like University of Iowa online programs, the University of Iowa is designed to ensure learners of all kinds enter into a world of high-quality education that surpasses barriers to reaffirm their ambition for greatness.

What Makes the University of Iowa a Top Choice?

The University of Iowa is considered more than an institution of higher learning; it is a launching pad for the next generation of leaders, researchers, and innovators. The combination of great academics, a sense of community, and real-life preparing experiences makes it the best public university.

1. Excellence in Research and Academics

• High Research Activity: The University's R1 Carnegie classification indicates the University's commitment to high research activity and funding.
• Facilities: The students have world-class facilities, in addition to being able to develop research and enjoy many partnerships, such as the Iowa Institute of Human Genetics and the Public Policy Center.
• Undergraduate Research Opportunities: Students can conduct research early in their university career, as they have faculty mentoring and undergraduate paid research assistant instructional opportunities.

2. Creative and Inclusive Campus Culture

• UNESCO City of Literature: Iowa City is a literary-rich location that enhances the university's world-famous Iowa Writers' Workshop and its exceptional liberal arts sector. 
• Diverse Student Body: The campus is rapidly expanding with international students adding to the learning environment and promoting a multicultural experience.  
• Supportive Community: The university embraces an inclusive and accessible environment with student resource centers, health services, and cultural groups.

3. Career Preparedness and Geographies: 

• The University of Iowa maintains robust employer partnerships: This means students can participate in career fairs, internships, and have many job pipelines through the best employers in healthcare, finance, and tech. 
• The Midwest Location: The geographically central location, plus access to internship and employment opportunities in large places like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Kansas City, are a feature of the university that few other schools can replicate. 
• High Graduate Outcomes: The university's career services are competent and do an excellent job of ensuring students are on the job market, or a path toward further education, after graduation.

Factoring in the entire package of high-level academics, sense of community, and innovative thinking, the University of Iowa has established a lot of stability to attract students for personal and professional development.

University of Iowa Ranking 

The University of Iowa rankings are consistently indicative of its reputation for research and student satisfaction. It has become nationally and internationally known for excellence in the arts, sciences, and professions. 

Just a few examples are:

#98 National Universities – U.S. News & World Report (2025)
#46 Top Public Schools – U.S. News & World Report (2025)
#1 Best Writing Program in the United States – U.S. News & World Report (2025), led by the Iowa Writers' Workshop
#225 Best Global Universities – U.S. News & World Report (2025)
#47 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs – U.S. News & World Report (2025)

QS World University Rankings – 2025

• #596 Overall QS World University Ranking
• #38 QS WUR Ranking by Subject
• #486 QS Sustainability Ranking

These rankings affirm that the University of Iowa remains an academically attractive institution to its growing population of students.

Best University of Iowa Programs and Majors 

The University of Iowa programs offer a broader selection that allows for flexibility and depth in students’ educational paths. With more than 200 majors, minors, and certificate options, students can build an education aligned with career aspirations and personal interests.

Here are some of the best University of Iowa majors:

University of Iowa Admissions Process

The University of Iowa admissions process is straightforward and student-friendly, with applicants able to come from all over the United States and the world. Follow these steps for first-year undergraduate students: 

1. Select your program from over 200 courses in the University of Iowa course catalog.

2. Complete the application online on either the University of Iowa Application Portal or the Common App.

3. Submit required documents like high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (optional), English proficiency test scores, and personal statement.

4. Pay the application fee of $40 for U.S. applicants and $80 for international students.

5. Track your application after submission.

6. Receive admission decision via email and your admissions portal.

7. Confirm Enrollment once accepted by paying the enrollment deposit to secure your spot.

University of Iowa Tuition: Fee Structure for 2024–2025

Understanding the University of Iowa tuition will play a role in preparing your educational investment. The expenses you can expect will be different for residents and nonresidents of Iowa; therefore, you will need to determine the tuition charges for the program you are interested in. 

Here is a list of tuition prices for enrolled students for the academic year 2024-2025:

Important Notes:

• University of Iowa tuition rates vary slightly depending on the college (engineering, business, and nursing).
• Meals, housing, and books are not included in this table.

There are numerous grants and scholarships available to assist with college expenses, even though the tuition at the University of Iowa is extremely affordable for Iowans.

University of Iowa Scholarships 

The University of Iowa Scholarships acknowledge individual achievements, financial need, and academic achievement by making post-secondary education accessible and affordable for students. While some scholarships require a separate application, others are given out automatically based on admissions applications. The university offers scholarship opportunities based on the college you choose. Overall, there are four major types of scholarships.

• Merit-Based Scholarships 
• Need-Based Scholarships
• Provost Scholarship
• Departmental Scholarships

Many academic departments and colleges have specific scholarships for students in specific programs or major fields of study at the university. Apart from these, you can also apply for private scholarships like Amberscholar Scholarship, that help you cover some of your expenses.

On-Campus Accommodation at the University of Iowa

The campus of the University of Iowa can foster a way of life among students that encourages retention and academic success. Traditional residence halls or suite-style living that makes use of 21st-century conveniences are among our housing options.

Residence Halls:

• Burge Hall
• Catlett Hall
• Currier Hall
• Hillcrest Hall
• Mayflower Hall
• Petersen Hall

Living on campus at the University of Iowa will keep students involved with classes, resources, and each other, making for a great and well-supported college experience.

University Of Iowa Off-Campus Housing

Iowa City has a variety of off-campus housing options with a balance of location, comfort, and convenience. Whether you are looking for a community experience with colleagues or a more private experience on your own, there are various options that fit the needs of each student's lifestyle.

1. The Flats at RISE

2. Replay Iowa City

3. RISE at Riverfront Crossings 

Whether you appreciate the robust and lively communal spaces or opt for the peaceful individual living, these off-campus housing options near the University of Iowa offer a short walk to all classes, activities, and downtown! 

Notable Alumni of the University of Iowa

Throughout its history, the University of Iowa has built a foundation of excellence through its accomplished alumni, who work in a variety of fields from writing, politics, and science to sports. Each of these successful alumni reflects the diversity of strengths and academic quality present at the university.

Here are 5 notable alumni from the University of Iowa: 

• Tennessee Williams - Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright.
• Gene Wilder- Iconic actor and comedian.
• Tom Brokaw- Noted journalist and former co-anchor of NBC Nightly News.
• Ashton Kutcher- Popular actor and entrepreneur.
• Dan Gable- Olympic gold medal wrestler and successful wrestling coach.

These alumni reflect the University of Iowa's continued commitment to developing the next generation of career leaders and innovators in a variety of industries.