Simpson College SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Simpson’s 86% acceptance rate means admission is realistic for many prepared students, while the 31–33 ACT range reflects the small 2% who chose to submit scores. If you test, submit only when your ACT is near that range; otherwise, use the test-optional policy and focus on grades, fit, and affordability.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Simpson College facts and stats
Simpson College is a small-town institution with an undergraduate enrollment of 1,235 students. Simpson has a freshman retention rate of 81%, which is above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 63%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1.
Indianola, IA
How do your scores compare at Simpson?
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Key Simpson College application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 15
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
February 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to Simpson, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year so you have time for a retake in the summer before senior year. Because Simpson’s Regular Decision deadline is August 15, fall senior-year retakes will likely be too late, so use the summer retake as your last practical chance to improve or superscore.
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What you'll actually pay
Simpson is a private not-for-profit, so the same tuition and fees rate applies to all students: $47,656. With 87% of students receiving aid and an average merit award of $27,876, scholarships can play a major role. Submit the FAFSA by the February 1 priority deadline.
Simpson’s listed cost of attendance is about $58,156, including $47,656 in tuition and fees and $10,500 for room and board. Financial aid is common, with 87% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $43,801. Merit scholarships are also significant, averaging $27,876. Graduates leave with an average debt of $35,798.
Student life at Simpson College
90% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Allen College
Waterloo, IAOrion Technical College
Davenport, IAAcceptance rate: 100%
Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, IAACT: 18–24
Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IAAcceptance rate: 77.6%
ACT: 19–26
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