| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Hospitality, Tourism and Events | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Ames, Iowa, USA
Type: Public Research University
Founded: 1858
Motto: "Science with Practice"
Campus Size: 1,813 acres
Mascot: Cy the Cardinal
Colors: Cardinal & Gold
Athletics: NCAA Division I – Big 12 Conference
Iowa State University (ISU) is a top-tier research university known for its engineering, agriculture, business, and veterinary medicine programs. It is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), placing it among the top research universities in the U.S.
Colleges & Schools:
ISU has 10 colleges, offering over 100 undergraduate majors and 150+ graduate programs.
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
College of Business
College of Design
College of Engineering
College of Human Sciences
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate College
Honors Program
National & Global Rankings:
#49 Top Public Universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report)
#122 Best National Universities (U.S. News & World Report)
#26 in Aerospace Engineering (U.S. News & World Report)
#11 in Agricultural Sciences (QS World Rankings)
#12 in Veterinary Medicine (QS World Rankings)
Notable Programs:
Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Computer Science, AI & Data Science)
Agriculture & Biotechnology
Business & Management
Veterinary Medicine (Ranked among the top in the U.S.)
Annual Research Funding: Over $500 million
Notable Research Centers:
Ames Laboratory (U.S. Department of Energy)
Bioeconomy Institute
Virtual Reality Applications Center
AI & Machine Learning Research Lab
ISU has contributed to NASA, defense research, and sustainable agriculture advancements.
Total Student Enrollment: ~35,000 (Undergraduate & Graduate)
Student Organizations: Over 900+ clubs & organizations
On-Campus Housing: Residence halls, apartments, and themed living communities
Athletics: Competes in the Big 12 Conference
Sustainability: ISU is a Green University, focusing on sustainable energy research and eco-friendly practices.
Acceptance Rate: ~88% (Moderately Selective)
Application Requirements:
High School GPA & Transcripts
SAT/ACT (Optional for most programs)
English Proficiency (For International Students)
Letters of Recommendation (For Graduate Programs)
Statement of Purpose (For Graduate Students)
Tuition Fees (2024 Estimates):
Category |
Annual Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|
|
In-State (Iowa Residents) |
~$10,000 |
|
Out-of-State (Other U.S. States & International Students) |
~$27,000 |
|
Graduate Programs |
~$27,000 – $32,000 |
|
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) |
~$58,000 |
Financial Aid & Scholarships Available – Merit-based and need-based scholarships for domestic & international students.
ISU has many influential alumni, including:
George Washington Carver – Agricultural Scientist & Inventor
John Vincent Atanasoff – Co-Inventor of the First Digital Computer
Clayton Anderson – NASA Astronaut
Abhay Ashtekar – Renowned Physicist in Quantum Gravity
Jeff Hornacek – Former NBA Player & Coach
Top Engineering & Science Programs – Recognized for its strong research and innovative curriculum.
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Competitive tuition costs with generous scholarships.
Strong Career Placement – 95%+ job placement rate for graduates in key fields.
Safe & Beautiful Campus – Located in Ames, one of the best college towns in the U.S.
Industry Partnerships – Ties with Google, Boeing, Microsoft, NASA, and Fortune 500 companies.
Job Placement Rate: ~95% within 6 months of graduation
Top Hiring Companies:
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, John Deere, Tesla
Pfizer, Intel, Deloitte, NASA, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Internship & Co-Op Programs Available – Engineering, Business, and IT students have access to paid internships & research assistantships.
A. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Agricultural Business
Agricultural Systems Technology
Agronomy
Animal Science
Environmental Science
Food Science
Forestry
Horticulture
Microbiology
Plant Biology
B. Ivy College of Business
Accounting
Business Analytics
Finance
International Business
Management
Marketing
Supply Chain Management
C. College of Design
Architecture
Graphic Design
Industrial Design
Interior Design
Landscape Architecture
Urban and Regional Planning
D. College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Agricultural Engineering
Biological Systems Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Construction Engineering
Cyber Security Engineering
Data Science
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Materials Science & Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Software Engineering
E. College of Human Sciences
Apparel, Merchandising, and Design
Culinary Food Science
Dietetics
Early Childhood Education
Family and Consumer Sciences Education
Hospitality Management
Kinesiology and Health
Nutritional Science
F. College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Biochemistry
Biology
Chemistry
Communication Studies
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Data Science
Economics
English
Environmental Science
Journalism and Mass Communication
Mathematics
Philosophy
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Statistics
G. College of Veterinary Medicine (Pre-Veterinary Track)
Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary)
Microbiology (Pre-Veterinary)
Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) & Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) depending on the program.
A. Agricultural & Life Sciences
Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Agricultural Education & Studies (M.S., Ph.D.)
Agronomy (M.S., Ph.D.)
Animal Science (M.S., Ph.D.)
Food Science & Technology (M.S., Ph.D.)
B. Ivy College of Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Business Analytics (M.S.)
Finance (M.S., Ph.D.)
Supply Chain & Logistics (M.S.)
C. College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Civil & Environmental Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Computer Science (M.S., Ph.D.)
Cybersecurity (M.S.)
Electrical Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Mechanical Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
Software Engineering (M.S.)
D. College of Human Sciences
Family & Consumer Sciences (M.S., Ph.D.)
Hospitality Management (M.S., Ph.D.)
Kinesiology (M.S., Ph.D.)
Nutritional Sciences (M.S., Ph.D.)
E. College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Applied Mathematics (M.S., Ph.D.)
Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (M.S., Ph.D.)
Chemistry (M.S., Ph.D.)
Data Science (M.S.)
Economics (M.S., Ph.D.)
Journalism & Mass Communication (M.S.)
Political Science (M.A., Ph.D.)
Sociology (M.A., Ph.D.)
Statistics (M.S., Ph.D.)
F. College of Veterinary Medicine
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Biomedical Sciences (M.S., Ph.D.)
Veterinary Microbiology & Preventive Medicine (M.S., Ph.D.)
Veterinary Pathology (M.S., Ph.D.)
Graduate Degrees: Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).
Data Science Graduate Certificate
Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate
Sustainable Agriculture Certificate
Business Analytics Certificate
Engineering Management Certificate
Iowa State University offers several online and hybrid degree programs for students needing flexibility.
Online MBA
Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) – Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Systems
Online Data Science (M.S.)
Graduate Certificates in Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, and Sustainable Energy
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024 Estimates) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences |
|
|
|
Agricultural Business |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Agricultural Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Animal Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Food Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Horticulture |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Ivy College of Business |
|
|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Business Analytics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Supply Chain Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
College of Design |
|
|
|
Architecture |
5 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Industrial Design |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Interior Design |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Landscape Architecture |
5 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
Aerospace Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Computer Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Cyber Security Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Software Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
College of Human Sciences |
|
|
|
Apparel, Merchandising, & Design |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Culinary Food Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Dietetics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Early Childhood Education |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Hospitality Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Kinesiology & Health |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences |
|
|
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
In-State: $11,916 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Data Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Journalism & Mass Communication |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
College of Veterinary Medicine (Pre-Vet Track) |
|
|
|
Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
|
Microbiology (Pre-Veterinary) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,133 | Out-of-State: $27,260 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024 Estimates) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences |
|
|
|
Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Agricultural Education & Studies (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Agronomy (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Animal Science (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Food Science & Technology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Ivy College of Business |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5 – 2 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
Business Analytics (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
Finance (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
Supply Chain & Logistics (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
College of Design |
|
|
|
Architecture (M.Arch.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Graphic Design (M.F.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Industrial Design (M.I.D.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Urban and Regional Planning (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
Aerospace Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Civil & Environmental Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Computer Science (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Cybersecurity (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Electrical Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Mechanical Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Software Engineering (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
College of Human Sciences |
|
|
|
Family & Consumer Sciences (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Hospitality Management (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Kinesiology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Nutritional Sciences (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences |
|
|
|
Applied Mathematics (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Chemistry (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Data Science (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Economics (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Journalism & Mass Communication (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Political Science (M.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Sociology (M.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Statistics (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Veterinary Medicine |
|
|
|
Biomedical Sciences (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Veterinary Microbiology & Preventive Medicine (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Veterinary Pathology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024 Estimates) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences |
|
|
|
Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Agricultural Education & Studies (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Agronomy (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Animal Science (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Food Science & Technology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Ivy College of Business |
|
|
|
Business & Management (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
Supply Chain Management (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $13,400 | Out-of-State: $28,950 |
|
College of Design |
|
|
|
Architecture (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Urban & Regional Planning (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Civil & Environmental Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Computer Science (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Cybersecurity (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Mechanical Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Software Engineering (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
College of Human Sciences |
|
|
|
Family & Consumer Sciences (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Hospitality Management (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Kinesiology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Nutritional Sciences (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences |
|
|
|
Applied Mathematics (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Chemistry (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Data Science (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Economics (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Journalism & Mass Communication (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Political Science (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Sociology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
Statistics (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $11,818 | Out-of-State: $27,456 |
|
College of Veterinary Medicine |
|
|
|
Biomedical Sciences (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Veterinary Microbiology & Preventive Medicine (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
|
Veterinary Pathology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-State: $12,966 | Out-of-State: $29,464 |
Iowa State University (ISU) is a top-ranked public research university located in Ames, Iowa, USA. It is home to over 35,000 students, including 4,000+ international students from 115+ countries. ISU offers world-class education, strong research programs, and career opportunities for international students in fields like Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Computer Science, and Veterinary Medicine.
Why Choose ISU?
Top-Ranked Programs – Especially in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Agriculture
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Competitive tuition rates with international student scholarships
STEM & Research Opportunities – Over $500 million in annual research funding
Safe & Friendly Campus – Located in Ames, Iowa, a top college town in the U.S.
Internship & Career Support – Strong ties with companies like Google, Microsoft, Boeing, and John Deere
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma (Equivalent to U.S. High School Graduation)
Minimum GPA: 2.5 - 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, varies by program)
English Language Proficiency (Choose one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 71+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 100+
PTE Academic: 48+
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)
Not required but recommended for competitive programs (Engineering, Business, Computer Science, etc.)
Other Documents Required:
Official Transcripts (Translated into English)
Statement of Purpose (Personal Essay)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional, but recommended for scholarships)
Resume/CV (Optional for Business/Engineering programs)
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language Proficiency (Choose one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
PTE Academic: 53+
GRE/GMAT Scores (Varies by Program):
GRE Required: Most Engineering, Science, and Business programs
GMAT Required: Some MBA programs
GRE/GMAT Waiver: Available for applicants with strong academic or work backgrounds
Other Required Documents:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Personal essay explaining goals
Two or More Letters of Recommendation
Resume/CV
Portfolio (For Design, Architecture, or Art programs)
Undergraduate Admissions (Bachelor’s Degree) – For high school graduates applying for a first-time college degree.
Graduate Admissions (Master’s & Ph.D.) – For students pursuing advanced studies and research-based programs.
Transfer Admissions – For students transferring from another university or college.
International Admissions – Special requirements apply for international students, including English language proficiency and visa processing.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
ISU offers 100+ undergraduate programs across disciplines such as Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Computer Science, and Social Sciences.
Check available programs: ISU Undergraduate Programs
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma (Equivalent to U.S. High School Graduation)
Minimum GPA: 2.5 - 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, varies by program)
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 71+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 100+
PTE Academic: 48+
Standardized Tests (Optional for Most Programs):
SAT/ACT: Not required but may improve scholarship chances.
Other Required Documents:
Official High School Transcripts (Translated into English)
Statement of Purpose (Personal Essay) (Recommended but optional)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional, but helpful for scholarships)
Resume/CV (For Business, Engineering, or Research-based programs)
Apply through one of the following platforms:
ISU Online Application Portal: Apply Now
Common Application: N/A
Application Fee:
$40 (Domestic Applicants)
$50 (International Applicants)
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks after submission.
Application Status: Check online via ISU Admissions Portal.
If admitted, ISU will issue an admission letter and Form I-20 (for international students).
Pay the enrollment deposit (if required) to confirm your spot.
Visa Process:
1 Receive Form I-20 from ISU.
2 Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350 USD) at.
3 Apply for an F-1 Student Visa at the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate.
4 Attend a visa interview and get your F-1 Visa approved.
5 Travel to the U.S. and attend ISU’s orientation program.
Step 1: Choose a Graduate Program
ISU offers 150+ master’s and Ph.D. programs in fields like Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Public Health, and Data Science.
Check available programs: ISU Graduate Programs
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
PTE Academic: 53+
GRE/GMAT Scores (Varies by Program):
GRE Required: Most Engineering, Science, and Business programs
GMAT Required: Some MBA programs
GRE/GMAT Waiver: Available for applicants with strong academic or work backgrounds
Other Required Documents:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Personal essay explaining goals.
Two or More Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
Resume/CV – Required for most programs.
Portfolio (For Art, Design, or Architecture programs).
Apply via ISU’s Graduate Application Portal: Apply Now
Application Fee:
$60 (Domestic Applicants)
$100 (International Applicants)
Some Master’s and Ph.D. programs may require an online/video interview with faculty members.
Graduate applications take 6-8 weeks for processing.
If accepted, you will receive an admission letter and I-20 (for international students).
Visa Process:
1 Receive Form I-20 from ISU.
2 Pay SEVIS Fee ($350 USD) and book a visa appointment.
3 Apply for an F-1 Student Visa at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
4 Attend the visa interview & travel to ISU for orientation.
ISU offers admissions in the following intakes:
Intake |
Application Deadline (Approx.) |
Semester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (Primary Intake) |
December – May |
August |
|
Spring |
August – October |
January |
|
Summer (Limited Programs) |
January – March |
May – June |
Fall Intake (August): Most popular intake, with maximum program availability and scholarship opportunities.
Spring Intake (January): Good option for students who miss Fall intake, but some programs have limited seats.
Summer Intake (May-June): Only available for select programs like Engineering, Business, and Online Courses.
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma (Equivalent to U.S. High School Graduation).
Minimum GPA: 2.5 - 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, varies by program).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 71+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 100+
PTE Academic: 48+
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional for Most Programs):
Not required but can improve scholarship chances.
Engineering, Business, and STEM programs may prefer strong SAT/ACT scores.
Other Required Documents:
Official Transcripts (Translated into English)
Statement of Purpose (Personal Essay) (Optional, but recommended)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional, but helpful for scholarships)
Resume/CV (Optional for Business/Engineering applicants)
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
Minimum GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
PTE Academic: 53+
GRE/GMAT Scores (Varies by Program):
GRE Required: Most Engineering, Science, and Business programs.
GMAT Required: Some MBA programs.
GRE/GMAT Waiver: Available for applicants with strong academic or work experience.
Other Required Documents:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Personal essay explaining goals.
Two or More Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
Resume/CV – Required for most programs.
Portfolio (For Art, Design, or Architecture programs).
Graduate programs may require additional research proposals or work experience for admission.
Academic Requirements:
Master’s degree (in some cases, a bachelor’s degree with exceptional academic performance may be considered).
Minimum GPA: 3.0 – 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 80-100+ (Varies by program).
IELTS: 6.5 – 7.0+.
Duolingo English Test: 110+.
PTE Academic: 58+.
GRE/GMAT Scores (Varies by Program):
GRE Required: For research-based STEM and Business Ph.D. programs.
GMAT Required: For Business-related Ph.D. programs.
GRE Waiver: Some programs waive GRE based on research background.
Other Required Documents:
Research Proposal / Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explaining research interests.
Three or More Letters of Recommendation.
Resume/CV.
Published Research Papers (Preferred for Ph.D. candidates).
Most Ph.D. students receive full funding through Research or Teaching Assistantships (RA/TA).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Merit Scholarship |
GPA 3.0+, Strong academic background |
$2,000 – $10,000 |
Renewable for 4 years |
|
George Washington Carver Scholarship |
U.S. and International Students from diverse backgrounds |
Full Tuition |
Renewable for 4 years |
|
Transfer Achievement Scholarship |
Transfer GPA 3.0+, transferring from a U.S. college/university |
$5,000 – $7,000 |
Renewable for 2 years |
|
Adventure Award |
Essay contest on student aspirations |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
One-time award |
|
Honors Program Scholarship |
Admitted to ISU Honors Program |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
Renewable for 4 years |
|
President’s Award for International Students |
Exceptional academic performance |
$5,000 – $10,000 |
Renewable |
|
Privately Funded Scholarships |
program & department |
$1,000 – $5,000 |
One-time or renewable |
Notes:
Scholarships do not require a separate application (automatically considered upon admission in most cases).
Students must maintain a minimum GPA to renew the scholarship each year.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate College Fellowship |
High academic achievement & research potential |
$5,000 – $15,000 |
One-time or renewable |
|
Ivy College of Business Scholarship |
MBA & Business Master’s students |
$3,000 – $10,000 |
One-time award |
|
Research Assistantship (RA) |
Assigned to a research project |
Full or partial tuition + stipend |
Renewable |
|
Teaching Assistantship (TA) |
Assist in teaching undergraduate courses |
Full or partial tuition + stipend |
Renewable |
|
Diversity Enhancement Fellowship |
Underrepresented groups in graduate education |
$5,000 – $15,000 |
Renewable |
|
Graduate Presidential Fellowship |
Highly competitive applicants with strong research backgrounds |
Full tuition waiver + stipend |
Renewable for 3-5 years |
Notes:
Most graduate students receive funding through Research (RA) or Teaching Assistantships (TA), covering tuition + stipend.
Stipends for RA/TA positions range from $20,000 – $35,000 per year.
Aid Type |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
ISU Need-Based Grant |
Based on financial need (FAFSA required for U.S. citizens) |
($1,000 – $5,000) |
|
Work-Study Program |
On-campus part-time work (For U.S. citizens & some eligible international students) |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
|
On-Campus Jobs |
Open to all students |
($10 – $15 per hour) |
Notes:
International students cannot apply for U.S. federal financial aid but can work on-campus (20 hours/week during semesters, 40 hours/week in breaks).
Assistantships and scholarships significantly reduce tuition costs for graduate students.
Campus Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Ames, Iowa, USA |
|
Campus Size |
1,813 acres |
|
No. of Residence Halls |
20+ residence halls for undergraduates & graduates |
|
Apartments for Upperclassmen & Graduates |
Frederiksen Court, Schilletter & University Village (SUV) |
|
Dining Options |
5 main dining centers + cafés, coffee shops, & convenience stores |
|
Recreation & Sports |
Gyms, swimming pools, climbing walls, basketball courts, & outdoor trails |
|
Library & Study Spaces |
Parks Library (24/7 access), computer labs, and study lounges |
|
Transportation |
Free CyRide bus system for students |
|
Safety & Security |
24/7 campus security, emergency call stations, and key-card access to dorms |
Housing Type |
Eligibility |
Room Type |
Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
First-year students |
Shared (Double) |
$5,200 – $7,800 |
|
Suite-Style Residence Halls |
First-year & upperclassmen |
Private & shared suites |
$7,500 – $9,500 |
|
Frederiksen Court Apartments |
Upperclassmen & graduate students |
Private room in shared apartment |
$6,800 – $8,500 |
|
Schilletter & University Village (SUV) Apartments |
Married students, families, & graduates |
1-3 bedroom apartments |
$7,200 – $12,000 |
|
Honors Housing |
Honors students |
Single & double rooms |
$7,500 – $9,000 |
Notes:
Meal Plan is required for students in residence halls ($4,500 – $5,800 per year).
Apartment-style housing does not require a meal plan (students cook for themselves).
Housing Type |
Location |
Room Type |
Estimated Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
Near ISU campus (2-4 roommates) |
Private room in shared unit |
$6,500 – $9,500 |
|
Studio Apartment |
5-10 minutes from campus |
Single studio |
$8,500 – $11,000 |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
Near ISU or Ames downtown |
Private apartment |
$10,000 – $13,500 |
|
Homestay (with local families) |
Ames area |
Private room + meals |
$7,500 – $10,500 |
Notes:
Off-campus housing may require utility payments (electricity, water, Wi-Fi, etc.), adding $1,500 – $2,500 per year.
Public transportation (CyRide) is free for ISU students, making commuting easy.
ISU has a welcoming and inclusive community with over 35,000 students, including 4,000+ international students from 115+ countries. The university fosters a student-friendly and safe environment, making it one of the best college towns in the U.S. ISU’s campus is spread over 1,813 acres, featuring modern academic buildings, residence halls, green spaces, and recreational facilities.
ISU has over 900+ student clubs and organizations, allowing students to engage in their interests and meet like-minded peers. These include:
Academic & Professional Organizations – Engineering, Business, Data Science, and Entrepreneurship Clubs.
Cultural & International Clubs – Indian Students Association, African Students Association, LatinX Club.
Performing Arts & Media – ISU Theatre, Music Bands, Student Radio (KURE 88.5 FM).
Volunteer & Service Organizations – Alternative Breaks, Community Service Groups.
Sports & Recreation Clubs – Rock Climbing, Martial Arts, Soccer, Basketball, and Skiing.
Greek Life at ISU – The university has fraternities & sororities that offer leadership, networking, and social engagement opportunities.
ISU is home to top-tier athletic programs, fitness centers, and recreational sports activities.
NCAA Division I Sports (Big 12 Conference):
Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Track & Field, Wrestling.
The Iowa State Cyclones play at Jack Trice Stadium and Hilton Coliseum.
Club & Intramural Sports:
Students can join recreational sports teams such as soccer, rugby, tennis, swimming, and rock climbing.
ISU has one of the best intramural sports programs in the U.S.
Recreation & Fitness Centers:
State Gym & Lied Recreation Center – Fully equipped gyms, yoga & dance studios, and an Olympic-size swimming pool.
Outdoor Recreation Program – Hiking, skiing, biking, and camping trips across Iowa’s beautiful landscapes.
Students can choose from on-campus and off-campus housing options, with amenities such as study lounges, social spaces, and dining halls.
On-Campus Housing:
Traditional residence halls for freshmen.
Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen and graduate students.
Themed living communities such as the Honors Housing and Global Village for international students.
Off-Campus Housing:
Apartments and shared rentals available near the ISU campus in Ames.
Free CyRide bus transportation for commuting students.
ISU provides varied meal options, including vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free choices.
Dining Halls:
Seasons Marketplace – American, Asian, and Mediterranean food.
Union Drive Marketplace – International cuisine, sushi, and grill stations.
Friley Windows – Known for its customized meal plans and late-night snacks.
Cafés & Fast-Food Chains:
Starbucks, Panda Express, Subway, McDonald’s, and Chipotle are available on campus.
Students can also enjoy local restaurants in Ames that serve international cuisine.
ISU has a strong career placement system, helping students secure jobs and internships in top companies.
Career Services at ISU:
Resume & Cover Letter Workshops – Helps students prepare for job applications.
Internship & Job Fairs – ISU hosts 10+ career fairs annually, bringing in employers like Google, Boeing, Tesla, John Deere, and Microsoft.
Mock Interviews & Career Counseling – One-on-one coaching for job readiness.
Work-Study & On-Campus Jobs – Part-time employment available for students.
STEM OPT Extension: International students in STEM fields can work in the U.S. for up to 3 years after graduation.
ISU has a rich arts and cultural scene, offering theatre performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year.
Arts & Culture Spaces:
Stephens Auditorium – Hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and lectures.
ISU Theatre & Music Department – Offers drama performances, jazz bands, and dance showcases.
Christian Petersen Art Museum – Displays student and professional art collections.
Annual Events & Festivals:
Homecoming Week – A week-long celebration with parades, football games, and alumni meet-ups.
Cyclone Family Weekend – Brings together students, families, and faculty.
VEISHEA Festival (historical event) – Celebrates ISU’s traditions with performances and exhibitions.
Global Gala – Cultural event showcasing music, dance, and food from around the world.
ISU offers comprehensive support services to ensure student well-being and academic success.
Academic Support:
Free tutoring services, writing centers, and study workshops.
Library & Research Assistance – 24/7 access to Parks Library.
Mental Health & Wellness:
Free counseling and psychological services for students.
Wellness programs on stress management, meditation, and fitness.
Health Services:
ISU has a student medical clinic, pharmacy, and urgent care center on campus.
International Student Support:
ISU provides guidance on visa processing, cultural adaptation, and language support.
International Student and Scholars Office (ISSO) helps with work authorizations like OPT and CPT.
CyRide Bus System (Free for ISU Students) – Covers Ames city and nearby areas.
Bike-Friendly Campus – ISU has bike lanes and rental services.
Carpool & Rideshare Services – Uber, Lyft, and campus shuttle services available.
Nearest Airport:
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is 40 miles from campus (~45-minute drive).
Airport shuttles & bus services connect students to ISU.
Diverse & Inclusive – Welcoming students from 115+ countries.
Active & Engaging Environment – 900+ clubs, sports, arts, and cultural activities.
Top-Tier Career Support – Internship & job placements at leading global companies.
Safe & Affordable – Ames is one of the best student-friendly cities in the U.S..
Great Outdoor Adventures – ISU students enjoy hiking, skiing, and biking in Iowa’s beautiful landscape.
1. Placement & Employability Statistics
Overall Employment Rate: 93-96% of ISU graduates secure a job or pursue further education within six months of graduation.
Average Starting Salary: $55,000 – $85,000 per year (varies by field).
Internship Participation: 90%+ of students complete at least one internship before graduation.
Top Hiring Industries:
Engineering & Technology (Software, AI, Renewable Energy, Manufacturing)
Business & Finance (Accounting, Marketing, Supply Chain Management)
Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences (Pharmaceutical, Biotech, Public Health)
Agriculture & Environmental Sciences (Sustainability, Conservation, Agribusiness)
Veterinary Medicine (Animal Health, Research, Food Safety)
2. Career Services & Placement Support
ISU provides career guidance, job search assistance, and employer networking opportunities through:
ISU Career Services:
Resume & Cover Letter Workshops – Personalized resume reviews and career counseling.
Interview Preparation & Mock Interviews – Helps students practice job interviews.
Internship & Job Fairs – Over 15+ career fairs annually, featuring Fortune 500 companies.
LinkedIn & Networking Events – Connect with alumni and recruiters.
Work-Study & On-Campus Jobs – Paid part-time jobs available for students.
Alumni Network & Employer Connections – ISU has strong industry partnerships with major companies.
Handshake Portal: ISU’s job and internship portal where students can apply for positions directly.
3. Top Employers Hiring ISU Graduates
ISU has strong industry connections, with graduates working at leading multinational companies, research institutions, and government agencies.
Technology & Engineering:
Microsoft
Boeing
Intel
Tesla
Hewlett-Packard (HP)
John Deere
Business & Finance:
Deloitte
KPMG
Wells Fargo
Principal Financial Group
Goldman Sachs
Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences:
Pfizer
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Medtronic
Eli Lilly
Mayo Clinic
Environmental & Sustainability:
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Agriculture & Food Science:
Cargill
Syngenta
DuPont Pioneer
Monsanto
ISU’s alumni network and corporate partnerships help students secure full-time jobs worldwide.
4. Internship & Co-Op Opportunities
Internships (Paid & Unpaid):
90% of ISU students complete at least one internship before graduation.
Internships available through Fortune 500 companies, government organizations, and research labs.
Cooperative Education (Co-Op) Programs:
Long-term work experience (6-12 months) while studying.
Available in Engineering, Business, and Science programs.
STEM OPT Extension (For International Students):
Students in STEM fields can work up to 3 years in the U.S. after graduation.
5. Industry-Specific Placement Rates & Salaries
Industry |
Placement Rate |
Average Starting Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Computer Science & IT |
95% |
$80,000 – $120,000 |
|
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil) |
94% |
$75,000 – $100,000 |
|
Business & Finance |
92% |
$65,000 – $90,000 |
|
Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences |
91% |
$60,000 – $85,000 |
|
Agriculture & Environmental Sciences |
90% |
$55,000 – $75,000 |
|
Veterinary Medicine |
98% |
$85,000 – $120,000 |
ISU’s Veterinary Medicine program is ranked among the top in the U.S., with nearly 100% job placement.
6. Placement Support for International Students
ISU provides specialized career support for international students, including:
International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS): Helps with work visas, CPT/OPT applications, and employment workshops.
OPT & STEM OPT Guidance: Allows international students to work in the U.S. for up to 3 years after graduation.
Job Search Assistance for H-1B Visa Sponsorship: ISU connects students with employers hiring international graduates.
7. How to Improve Job Placement Chances at ISU?
Gain Internship Experience – Apply for internships early (available through ISU’s Handshake Portal).
Attend Career Fairs & Networking Events – Meet recruiters and industry professionals.
Use ISU Career Services – Get resume reviews and mock interview practice.
Apply for Research & Teaching Assistantships – Gain valuable work experience while studying.
Join Student Clubs & Organizations – Networking opportunities with alumni and professionals.
Iowa State University (ISU) has an acceptance rate of approximately 88-92%, making it a moderately selective university.
This means that ISU accepts a majority of qualified applicants, but admission requirements vary by program, with some majors being more competitive than others.
1. Admission Selectivity & Competitiveness
ISU has a high acceptance rate, meaning most students who meet the minimum requirements have a good chance of being admitted.
While the university is not highly selective, competitive programs like Engineering, Computer Science, and Veterinary Medicine have stricter admission criteria.
Graduate (Master’s & Ph.D.) programs tend to be more selective, especially research-intensive fields.
2. Factors Affecting Acceptance Rate
Undergraduate Programs:
The overall acceptance rate is around 88-92%.
Engineering and Business programs may have lower acceptance rates (around 75-85%).
Graduate Programs:
Acceptance rates vary significantly by department.
STEM programs (Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Data Science) are more competitive, with acceptance rates around 40-60%.
Business and Humanities programs may have higher acceptance rates (60-80%).
Veterinary Medicine (DVM Program):
ISU’s College of Veterinary Medicine is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of 10-15%.
International Students:
Acceptance rates for international applicants are similar to domestic students.
Additional requirements include English proficiency scores, proof of financial support, and visa documentation.
3. How to Improve Your Chances of Admission?
Maintain a Strong GPA – A GPA of 3.0+ (out of 4.0) improves your chances.
Meet English Proficiency Requirements – TOEFL (79+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (105+).
Submit SAT/ACT Scores (Optional but Recommended for Scholarships) – A SAT score of 1100+ or ACT score of 22+ can strengthen your application.
Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Personal essays and recommendations help in competitive programs.
Apply Early – Early applicants have a better chance of admission and scholarships.
4. ISU Acceptance Rate Compared to Other Universities
Easier to Get Into: Compared to highly selective schools like MIT (4%) or UC Berkeley (14%), ISU has a much higher acceptance rate.
Similar Acceptance Rates: ISU’s acceptance rate is comparable to other public universities like:
University of Arizona (85%)
Michigan State University (83%)
University of Oregon (84%)
More Competitive Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, and Veterinary Medicine have lower acceptance rates compared to Liberal Arts and Business programs.
Main Campus Address:
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa, 50011
United States
City: Ames, Iowa
State: Iowa (IA)
Region: Midwest, United States
Proximity to Major Cities:
Des Moines, IA: ~30 miles (48 km) south (~40-minute drive)
Minneapolis, MN: ~230 miles (370 km) north (~3.5-hour drive)
Chicago, IL: ~330 miles (530 km) east (~5-hour drive)
Ames is consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in the U.S., offering a safe, student-friendly environment with easy access to major cities and outdoor recreational areas.
