University of Northern Iowa (UNI)
Major Intakes
Plan your application according to these cycles.
Ranking
Excellence Recognized Worldwide
Top Public Schools (Midwest)
Regional Universities Midwest (U.S. News)
Academic Programs & Deadlines
University Overview / History
Founded in 1876 as an institutional teacher training pioneer, the University of Northern Iowa has matured into a premier public comprehensive university educating over 9,000 students. UNI is globally praised for providing big-university research platforms with a focused, small-college environment, anchored by the AACSB-accredited David W. Wilson College of Business.
Foundation & Key Facts
- Maintains an exceptional 17:1 student-to-faculty classroom ratio.
- Over 99% of classes are taught directly by faculty professors rather than graduate assistants.
- Regularly recognized for unmatched undergraduate business placement rates across the Midwest.
Location Insights (City / State)
Cedar Falls, Iowa - A beautiful, exceptionally safe, and distinctively close-knit Midwestern college town centered in Northeast Iowa along the Cedar River.
About Cedar Falls, IA
Blends scenic outdoor recreation (over 100 miles of multi-use trails) with a historic, award-winning downtown Main Street ecosystem full of local coffee houses, boutiques, and tech startups.
| Expense | Undergraduate | Graduate | MBA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $23,029 | $24,359 | $26,417 |
| Health Insurance | $2,520 | $2,520 | $2,520 |
| Books | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| Living | $10,646 | $10,646 | $10,646 |
| Total | $36,695 | $38,025 | $40,083 |
Career Opportunities
| Companies & Industry Exposure | Job & Employability |
|---|---|
| Strategic hiring, co-op, and corporate recruiting connections with major regional and national industry pillars: John Deere World Headquarters, Principal Financial Group, Collins Aerospace, and Target Corp. | Exceptional career placement statistics; over 94% of international alumni secure full-time corporate placement or advanced graduate paths within six months of graduation. |
Admission Procedure
| Admissions & Test Prep Admission Requirements | Language Requirements |
|---|---|
| Complete Online Admissions Application (UNI Portal) | Undergraduate: TOEFL iBT: 79 , IELTS: 6.0 , PTE: 52 , Duolingo: 105 |
| $50 Undergraduate / $75 Graduate Non-Refundable Application Fee | Graduate: TOEFL iBT: 79 , IELTS: 6.5 , PTE: 52 , Duolingo: 105 |
| Official High School Transcripts or University Marksheets | |
| Copy of Passport Biographical Page | |
| Completed UNI Financial Statement Form. |
Funding & International Student Support
| Scholarships & Financial Aid | Visa Process | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| International freshman applicants are automatically evaluated for the UNI International Scholar Award, which functions as a partial tuition reduction providing $5,000 to $8,000 per academic year based on high school tier scores. | Attain official academic admission clearance from the UNI Office of Admissions. | International students coming from the Indian education system must present either Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) or Council for Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE) school certificates with a cumulative 60% (B grade) baseline across academic subjects. |
| Graduate applicants can target highly competitive departmental assistantships providing partial tuition waivers and monthly stipends. | Submit the official UNI Financial Statement and Certificate Form backed by liquid banking proofs. | |
| Receive your officially processed Federal Form I-20 via secured, institutional electronic distribution. | ||
| Settle the $350 SEVIS I-901 transaction fee online, fill out the standard DS-160 document, and book an F-1 student visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. |
Student Testimonials
Riley
USAI am a new incoming freshman, so I haven't yet started, however so far, my experience has been really great. The application process all the way through the orientation was so easy. My advisor has been so helpful and is always available when I need something. I love the campus; it's a state school but still small enough to not be overwhelming. I'll be joining the march band and beginning band camp next week. I'm so excited for the opportunity!
Ava
USAIf you're asking about the University of Northern Iowa, id say its a solid choice, especially if your interested in education or business programs. The campus has a friendly vibe, and class sizes are small enough to get a good interaction with professors. there is also a good mix of activities and sports to keep things fun outside of class. Overall, its a great place if you want a balanced college experience with both academic and community.
Jacob
USAUNI stands out to me because it feels more personal and welcoming than a huge university. I like that the class sizes are smaller, which would make it easier to connect with professors and other students. Since I’m interested in business, communication, and content creation, I think UNI would give me strong opportunities while still having a supportive campus environment. I also like that it’s close to home, affordable, and has a good reputation in Iowa. Overall, I think UNI would be worth attending because it seems like a place where students can grow academically and socially without feeling lost in a massive school.
Kaylin
USAMy opinion of Northern Iowa is that it is the most affordable college around me. Something that stood out to me was the campus and the people. Everyone is so kind and helpful. When I went on a tour, the guides were more than willing to answer any questions I had. The campus was clean and well laid-out. I can't wait to go this fall.
Jordan
USAUNI felt like a close-knit community but with several thousand students on campus. It stood out to me because I know current students, and they have lots of good things to say about UNI. Their music education program is one of the best in the Midwest. I appreciate the smaller campus and don't believe I'll feel overwhelmed when I move there.
Quick FAQs
Gallery
