Indiana University-Bloomington logo

Indiana University-Bloomington

Accept Rate
80.37%
Grad Rate
81.2%
Enrollment
36,571
Avg SAT
1308
Tuition
$11,790
Median Salary
$63,742
Overall Grade
C+
B+
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
B-
Diversity
A
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Indiana University-Bloomington feels like a classic Big Ten experience with a vibrant, inclusive energy. The campus is a stunning blend of limestone architecture and lush green spaces, creating a picturesque backdrop for a bustling student life. There's a palpable sense of school spirit, especially on game days, mixed with the intellectual buzz of a major research university.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

80.37%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 130875th Pctl
11701400
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2975th Pctl
2732
1122436

Admissions Tips

To stand out, applicants should highlight leadership roles and community service in their application, as IU values well-rounded students. While test-optional, a strong SAT score around 1308 can strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs like Kelley. Submit your application by the November 1 early action deadline to receive priority consideration for scholarships and admission to selective schools.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1308
40080012001600
School range: 1170โ€“1400

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

IU Bloomington is a powerhouse for business, with the renowned Kelley School of Business leading the way, and it also boasts top-tier programs in music, public affairs, and journalism. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research opportunities across its diverse range of more than 550 degree programs. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, students can expect accessible professors and engaging classroom discussions.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
33.5%
Biology & Biomedical
9%
Communications
6.7%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
6.6%
Computer Science
6.3%
Public Administration
5.6%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.6%
Psychology
4.4%
Social Sciences
4.4%
Education
3.7%
Health Professions
3.2%
Physical Sciences
1.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

81.2%
Graduation Rate
90.5%
Retention Rate
36,571
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$11,790
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$15,342
After financial aid
Total Cost
$27,361
Cost of attendance/year
16.7%
Receive Pell Grants
27.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Bloomington

Bloomington offers a unique small-town feel with the amenities of a college town, centered around the historic Courthouse Square and its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Students enjoy the vibrant arts scene, including live music at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, and outdoor activities at Lake Monroe and the surrounding hills. The city's diverse culinary scene, particularly its international cuisine, is a major draw for students.

Local Rent Check

$979 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Bloomington
Explore Bloomington

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$47,160
$0Est. 4 Years: $47,160

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($63,742):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus and surrounding Bloomington area are generally considered safe, with the Indiana University Police Department providing 24/7 patrols and emergency services. As with any urban setting, students are advised to practice common-sense safety, such as staying in well-lit areas at night and utilizing the campus escort service.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Top-ranked Kelley School of Business and world-renowned Jacobs School of Music
  • โœ“ Vibrant Big Ten social scene with a classic college town feel in Bloomington
  • โœ“ Strong alumni network with high post-graduation employment rates
  • โœ“ Extensive research opportunities for undergraduates across diverse fields

Cons

  • โœ— Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state tuition
  • โœ— Large class sizes are common for introductory courses, especially in popular majors
  • โœ— The campus can feel overwhelming for students who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting

Notable Alumni

Mark Cuban
Entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, known for his role on Shark Tank.
John Mellencamp
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for his heartland rock style.
John Irving
Acclaimed novelist and screenwriter, author of 'The World According to Garp' and 'A Prayer for Owen Meany'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indiana University-Bloomington is nationally recognized for its top-tier Kelley School of Business, the world-renowned Jacobs School of Music, and the highly-ranked Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. It is also known for its picturesque limestone campus, vibrant Big Ten social scene, and strong research programs.

With an acceptance rate of 80.37%, Indiana University-Bloomington is moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score between 1210 and 1400. While acceptance is relatively accessible for qualified applicants, admission to competitive programs like Kelley School of Business requires a stronger academic profile.

Campus life at IU is dynamic and social, with over 750 student organizations and a strong Greek life presence. Students enjoy a classic college town atmosphere in Bloomington, with access to concerts, art galleries, outdoor recreation at Lake Monroe, and a diverse food scene. Big Ten athletics, especially basketball, are a major source of school spirit.

Yes, for many students, IU Bloomington offers a strong return on investment. With an average net price of $15,342 and 10-year median earnings of $63,742, the financial value is compelling. Graduates, particularly from the Kelley School of Business, often secure high-paying jobs, making the investment worthwhile.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Eli Lilly and Company Cummins Salesforce Deloitte Eli Lilly and Company
Smart Start Score
73

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 48,857
  • In-State Tuition $11,790
  • Out-of-State $40,482
  • Zip Code 47405

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 50.2% โ™€ 49.8%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $15,342, which is significantly lower than the sticker price for in-state students, IU Bloomington offers a strong value proposition. The 10-year median earnings of $63,742 for graduates indicate a solid return on investment, outpacing many peer institutions. The Kelley School of Business, in particular, has a well-documented track of placing graduates in high-paying roles, further boosting the degree's financial viability.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $11,790
Housing (12 mo) $11,748
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $30,738
With avg financial aid:
$15,342/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.