Iowa State University of Science and Technology

School Overview

Situated in Ames, IA, Iowa State University of Science and Technology is a well-regarded institution of higher education. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, it is ranked #117 among National Universities. It is also recognized as #57 in Top Public Schools. The school features a city setting and serves 25,628 undergraduate students. The institution maintains a 89% acceptance rate, making it welcoming to a broad range of applicants. Admitted students typically present SAT scores of 1120-1360 and ACT scores of 21-28. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.8. With a 18:1 student-faculty ratio, students benefit from close interaction with professors and hands-on learning opportunities. About 34% of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. Students frequently pursue degrees in Engineering (20%), Business and Management (18%), and Agricultural / Animal / Plant / Veterinary Science and Related Fields (11%). Graduates in Engineering earn a median salary of $92,551 after entering the workforce. The average net price for students receiving financial aid is $15,494. Iowa State University of Science and Technology achieves a four-year graduation rate of 57%.