Indiana University Bloomington

Bloomington, IN US News #58

38.0%

Acceptance Rate

1340

Avg SAT

Avg ACT

3.72

Avg GPA

Indiana University Bloomington, founded in 1820, is Indiana's flagship public research university and one of America's great public institutions. Located in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, IU combines Big Ten athletic tradition with exceptional programs in music, business, and the liberal arts that rival the nation's finest universities. The university holds Carnegie R1 classification for very high research activity, with annual research expenditures exceeding $700 million. IU's Jacobs School of Music is consistently ranked the nation's premier music school, while the Kelley School of Business ranks among the top public business programs nationally. With approximately 45,000 students, Indiana University is one of America's largest institutions, yet maintains the charm and accessibility of a traditional campus. The limestone buildings, wooded campus, and vibrant college town create an environment that students describe as quintessentially collegiate. IU's mission emphasizes creating an environment where students and faculty pursue the highest levels of intellectual development. The university has produced Rhodes Scholars, MacArthur Fellows, and leaders across every field while maintaining a welcoming, supportive community culture that helps students from all backgrounds succeed.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate: 38.0%
SAT Range: N/A
ACT Range: N/A
Avg GPA: 3.72

Campus & Students

Size: N/A
Type: N/A
Student:Faculty: N/A
Setting: N/A

Outcomes & Cost

Graduation Rate: N/A
Retention Rate: N/A
Tuition (In-State): N/A
Tuition (Int'l): N/A

Student Life & Environment

Campus life at Indiana University Bloomington pulsates with energy and opportunity, offering students an extraordinarily rich tapestry of experiences beyond the classroom. The university supports over 750 student organizations spanning every conceivable interest, from academic and professional societies to cultural groups, recreational clubs, and advocacy organizations. Greek life thrives at IU, with one of the largest fraternity and sorority systems in the nation, yet students who choose different paths find equally vibrant communities through residence hall programs, academic living-learning communities, and special interest houses. The Little 500, IU's legendary bicycle race, stands as the largest collegiate bike race in the nation and epitomizes the spirited campus culture that defines the Hoosier experience. Big Ten athletics generate tremendous excitement, with passionate fans filling Memorial Stadium for football games and Assembly Hall for basketball, where the storied program has claimed five national championships. The Indiana Memorial Union, one of the largest student unions in the world, serves as the campus living room where students gather for meals, meetings, and memorable moments. Cultural enrichment opportunities include world-class performances at the Musical Arts Center, exhibitions at the Eskenazi Museum of Art, and countless lectures and events featuring distinguished visitors. The Recreational Sports facilities provide state-of-the-art fitness options, intramural leagues, and outdoor adventure programs that promote physical wellness and social connection.

Location & Surroundings

Bloomington, Indiana, consistently earns recognition as one of America's most livable small cities, offering an ideal blend of collegiate energy, cultural sophistication, and natural beauty. The charming downtown square, located just steps from campus, features an eclectic mix of locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, and entertainment venues that create a vibrant urban core. The surrounding Monroe County landscape provides abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, with Lake Monroe offering boating, swimming, and fishing, while miles of hiking and biking trails wind through pristine forests and limestone quarries. The artistic and intellectual character of the community reflects the university's influence, with independent theaters, galleries, and music venues contributing to a cultural scene that rivals cities many times larger. Bloomington's farmers' market ranks among the nation's finest, showcasing regional agriculture and artisanal products every Saturday morning. Despite its small-city charm, Bloomington maintains convenient connections to major metropolitan areas, with Indianapolis just an hour north and Louisville and Cincinnati within easy driving distance. The community's commitment to sustainability and progressive values creates a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds. Seasonal changes bring distinctive beauty to the region, from brilliant fall foliage in Brown County to blooming spring gardens throughout the city. Local restaurants offer cuisines from around the world, reflecting the international character of the university community.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Indiana University Bloomington maintains its commitment to affordability while delivering exceptional educational value, with tuition structures that remain competitive among peer institutions. In-state students benefit from Indiana's investment in public higher education, while out-of-state students find IU's costs reasonable compared to similar research universities. The university awards approximately $500 million annually in financial aid, including merit scholarships, need-based grants, and work-study opportunities that help students manage educational expenses. The Hoosier Promise program ensures that Indiana students from families with limited resources can graduate debt-free, demonstrating the institution's dedication to accessibility. Career development support begins early in students' academic journeys, with the Walter Center for Career Achievement providing comprehensive services including resume workshops, interview preparation, networking events, and internship placement assistance. The university's powerful alumni network, spanning over 700,000 graduates worldwide, opens doors for current students through mentorship programs and professional connections. Graduates from programs like Kelley Business, Informatics, and Media consistently achieve exceptional placement rates, with major employers actively recruiting on campus throughout the year. Co-operative education and internship programs enable students to gain professional experience while earning academic credit and income. The starting salaries for IU Bloomington graduates compare favorably with national averages, particularly for students from the university's most selective programs. Graduate and professional school acceptance rates reflect the strong academic preparation students receive.