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How to Get Into IU in 2026

Kelley School of Business is top-10 undergrad — beautiful limestone campus.

Quick Answer

Indiana University Bloomington has a 80% acceptance rate with a middle 50% SAT range of 1120-1340 and average GPA of 3.6. Kelley School of Business is top-10 undergrad — beautiful limestone campus. Founded 1820 in Bloomington, IN.

Admissions Snapshot

Acceptance Rate80%Moderately Selective
SAT Range (25th-75th)1120 - 1340
Average GPA (Unweighted)3.6
Undergraduate Enrollment33,300
School TypePublic
LocationBloomington, IN
Founded1820
Test PolicyTest-Optional
Need-BlindNo
Meets 100% NeedNo

Data source: IPEDS College Navigator and institutional Common Data Set (most recent available year). Data lags approximately one year.

What IU Values Most (CDS Data)

Course rigor & GPAVery important
LeadershipConsidered
Activity depthConsidered
Spike / distinctive talentConsidered
Application essaysConsidered

Who Gets Into IU: 4 Composite Profiles

These are composite profiles based on publicly available admissions patterns. They do not represent real individuals.

The Academic Powerhouse

Near-perfect GPA and test scores. Strong in STEM or humanities. Multiple AP/IB courses with 5s and 7s. Research experience or independent project.

The Community Builder

Founded or led a significant student organization. Demonstrated measurable community impact. Strong essays connecting service to personal growth.

The Specialized Expert

Deep expertise in one field — national competition winner, published research, or professional-level skill. Clear spike that makes the application memorable.

The Versatile Contributor

Strong across multiple areas without being the best at any single one. Excellent writer who connects diverse experiences into a coherent narrative.

IU Essay Strategy

IU's supplemental essays are your chance to demonstrate genuine fit. The "Why IU?" essay must reference specific programs, professors, courses, or campus resources. Generic essays about prestige or location are immediately recognizable and ineffective.

Read the IU Essay Guide

Application Strategy: ED vs EA vs RD

At 80% acceptance rate, strong applicants have solid chances in any round. Focus on essay quality over application timing.

Read our ED vs EA vs RD strategy guide →

Use the IU Fit Worksheet

Score your profile against IU's admissions criteria. See where you stand across 7 dimensions calibrated to real CDS data. Free, no signup required.

Get Your Free IU Fit Score

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IU's acceptance rate?

Indiana University Bloomington's acceptance rate is approximately 80% based on the most recent Common Data Set. This rate can vary by year and by application round (ED, EA, RD).

What SAT score do I need for IU?

The middle 50% SAT range for IU is 1120-1340. Scoring above 1340 does not guarantee admission, and scoring below 1120 does not mean rejection — holistic review considers the full application.

What GPA do I need to get into IU?

The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at IU is approximately 3.6. Course rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment) matters as much as the GPA number itself.

Does IU have Early Decision?

Check IU's admissions website at indiana.edu/admissions for the most current information on early application options. Policies can change year to year.

Is IU test-optional?

Yes, IU is currently test-optional. Test policies can change each admissions cycle.

How many students attend IU?

Indiana University Bloomington has approximately 33,300 undergraduate students. As a public university, it offers a large campus community with diverse academic programs.

What is IU known for?

Kelley School of Business is top-10 undergrad — beautiful limestone campus.

Written by AdmitPath team

Data sourced from IPEDS College Navigator and IU's Common Data Set. CDS publication year noted — data may lag one year.

Last updated: June 2026

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