University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa · Public
University of Northern Iowa admitted 93% of 5,442 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1045–1264 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 69% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at University of Northern Iowa
Enter a score to see whether University of Northern Iowa is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (93%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.
Application deadlines
University of Northern Iowa’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application fee is $40 ($50 for international applicants), and University of Northern Iowa accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check University of Northern Iowa’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
University of Northern Iowa doesn’t report an early decision or early action round.
What admissions weighs
How University of Northern Iowa rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- GPA
Important
- –
Considered
- Class rank
- Test scores
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Interview
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- Character
- First generation
Not considered
- Legacy
- Where you live
- State residency
- Religion
- Volunteering
- Work experience
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.61 GPA. 22% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $22,726 in-state and $34,270 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $15,931 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
Quick answers
What is University of Northern Iowa’s acceptance rate?
University of Northern Iowa admitted 93% of applicants: 5,068 of 5,442 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is University of Northern Iowa’s application deadline?
University of Northern Iowa uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.
What SAT score do you need for University of Northern Iowa?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1045 to 1264, with a median around 1160. A score at or above 1160 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is University of Northern Iowa’s application fee?
The application fee is $40 ($50 for international applicants) for 2026–27, and University of Northern Iowa accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Does University of Northern Iowa have supplemental essays?
No. University of Northern Iowa doesn’t ask for a supplemental essay or the Common App personal essay for 2026–27.
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