Upper Iowa University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Upper Iowa, the 96.5% acceptance rate means your strategy should focus on choosing a school where you can start strong and persist, especially with a 68% freshman retention rate. If you submit scores, aim for the top of the middle range, around a 1050 SAT or 23 ACT.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Upper Iowa University facts and stats
Upper Iowa University enrolls 3,054 undergraduates in a rural campus setting. Upper Iowa has a 68% freshman retention rate and a 33% 6-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 25:1.
Fayette, IA
How do your scores compare at Upper Iowa?
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Key Upper Iowa University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
June 30
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
Because Upper Iowa is test-optional, use this timeline only if you plan to submit scores. Take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall of senior year for superscore-focused retakes while checking Upper Iowa’s regular admission deadline to confirm the last scores that will arrive in time.
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What you'll actually pay
Upper Iowa is a private not-for-profit, so the same tuition and fees rate applies to all students. Tuition and fees are $19,475, and 84% of students receive aid, with an average merit award of $14,500. Submit the FAFSA by the June 30 priority deadline.
Upper Iowa’s listed cost of attendance is about $29,752, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Aid is common, with 84% of students receiving assistance and an average aid package of $28,710. Merit awards average $14,500, which can significantly reduce the sticker price for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $32,561.
Student life at Upper Iowa University
58% 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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