International First-Year Requirements
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GPA requirement
Equivalent to a minimum 3.0 high school GPA on a 4.0 scale. The Office of Admissions recognizes that grading systems vary worldwide, so we’ll calculate an equivalent GPA when needed. For details, refer to the country-specific requirements.
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Course requirements
Along with the GPA requirement, students must complete these minimum high school courses: Four years of English (or your native language), three years of science (with at least two years of lab science focusing on biology, chemistry, or physics), three years of math (including algebra and geometry), and two years of social studies.
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SAT/ACT scores
SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. However, students who earn at least a 1200 on the SAT (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + Math scores) or a 25 composite score on the ACT will automatically be considered to meet the 3.00 GPA requirement.
English proficiency requirement
International students can meet Iowa State's English proficiency requirement by achieving a satisfactory score on one of the following exams or by qualifying under one of the categories outlined below:
| Option | Minimum score or grade required | Iowa State code |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL | 71 IBT with a 17 or above on the Speaking and Writing sections 17 on all sections on the Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) | 6306 |
| IELTS | 6.0 overall score with all subscores 5.5 or above | IELTS doesn't use codes |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | The minimum Duolingo English proficiency score for applicants is 100 for those entering through Spring 2025. Beginning in Summer 2025, the required score will rise to 105. | DET doesn't use codes |
| PTE | 48 overall score | PTE doesn't use codes |
| SAT | 460 Evidence-based Writing and Reading subscore (EWR) | 6306 |
| ACT | 19 English subscore | 1320 |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | 5 on any of the four IB English courses (SL or HL) | |
| Advanced Placement (AP) | 3 on English Language and Composition or 4 on English Literature and Composition | |
| IGCSE (O Levels/AS & A Levels) | D in First Language English or C in English as a second language |
International students meeting any of the following criteria will be considered to have fulfilled the requirement:
- Those residing in a country where English is the sole official language and who are native English speakers
- Graduates from U.S. high schools
- Completion of the equivalent of Iowa State’s English 1500 or 2500 with a grade of B or higher at an accredited U.S. two-year or four-year college or university.
Documents required for admission
- English proficiency test results
- Transcripts from all high schools or universities attended
- Bank statement or sponsor letter confirming $47,600 USD, the equivalent of one year's expenses
- Copy of passport (and visa, if available)
Scanned documents are acceptable for admission review. However, if admitted, official final documents will be required.
Country-specific academic requirements
Applying for a visa
Applying for a visa takes time and careful preparation, so be sure to start early and check the U.S. embassy website in your country for guidance.
Visa eligibility Form I-20
A Form I-20, issued by U.S. schools to international students, indicates you’ve met all admission requirements to attend. If you’re outside the U.S., bring your Form I-20 to your nearest U.S. Consulate, along with your passport, TOEFL score, financial documents, and transcripts, to apply for an F-1 student visa. Be sure to sign your I-20 before entering the U.S.
If you’re already in the U.S., your I-20 can only be issued after the release date from your previous school, typically your last date of attendance.
To avoid delays, apply for your visa well in advance, as visas cannot be issued more than 120 days before the registration date on your I-20.
Student visa application requirements
To apply for a student visa, please provide the following:
- Form I-20: Once admitted to Iowa State and upon demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your expenses, we will send you the Certificate of Eligibility for a Student Visa (Form I-20). Upon receiving it, verify that all information is accurate, read it carefully, and sign in the designated space.
- Non-immigrant visa application (DS-160): Complete the online DS-160 form, which includes a photo, available at no charge on the embassy’s website.
- Valid passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your intended U.S. entry date.
- Visa processing fee receipt
- SEVIS fee payment proof (I-901 receipt)
Additionally, have these documents on hand:
- Academic records: Transcripts and diplomas from all previously attended institutions.
- Standardized test scores: Include results from any relevant exams like the TOEFL, SAT, ACT, or IELTS.
- Financial documentation: Evidence showing that you or your sponsor can cover your tuition and living costs. You may include a copy of your Undergraduate Financial Statement along with supporting documents. For instance, if you or your sponsor is a salaried employee, provide income tax records and original bank statements. If self-employed or a business owner, include business registration, licenses, tax documents, and original bank statements.
For further guidance, consult the U.S. Department of State website.
Making travel arrangements
After receiving your visa, you can begin making travel arrangements. Be sure to book early, as flights tend to fill up quickly during peak student travel periods. Keep in mind that visa regulations prevent students from arriving more than 30 days before the date listed on their Form I-20.
Students currently in the U.S.
If you are currently in the U.S., you will need to have your visa status verified by your current school. To do this, request that they complete the Transfer I-20 Request Form. Please note that this form should only be submitted after you have accepted your offer of admission to Iowa State University.