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Simpson College

Indianola, Iowa · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #5 US News
Aug 15Application deadline

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
A-Academics
CAdmissions
B+Student Life
B+Overall

About

Simpson College is located in Indianola, Iowa. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,130 students.

simpson.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$46,212
Out-of-state tuition$46,212
Room & board$10,088
Avg aid package$35,240
Students receiving aid33%
Pell grant recipients33%

Simpson College is committed to making education accessible, with a range of financial aid options including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The Simpson Promise covers full tuition for Iowa families with incomes under $100,000, and the college provides generous first-year scholarships. With an average per year after aid of $24,000, Simpson is considered one of the best values in the Midwest.

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Admissions

Test scores

ACT · middle 50%31–33
136

Application info

Acceptance rate89%
Average GPA3.57
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Application dates

Regular DecisionAug 15

Simpson College has an acceptance rate of 86%, indicating a relatively accessible admissions process. The college considers factors beyond test scores, with a holistic review of applicants. Simpson College accepts the Common Application and also offers an online application through its website, making it easy for prospective students to apply.

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Academics

Graduation rate66%
Retention rate76%
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Full-time faculty51%

Simpson College offers a personalized academic experience with a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, fostering close relationships between students and professors. The college offers over 80 majors and minors, with a leading-edge curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, community partnerships, and independent research. The 4-4-1 academic calendar includes a three-week May Term for intensive field experiences, study abroad, or focused coursework.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$59,274
Job placement rate98%
Earn more than HS grad87%
Economic mobility123%
Loan default (3 yr)3%
Loan repayment (3 yr)76%

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,130Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 53%Male 47%
76% WhiteRacial diversity
White 76%Hispanic 11%Black 4%Asian 2%Other 8%
Campus housingYes

Simpson College offers a vibrant and engaged campus life with over 75 clubs and organizations, NCAA Division III athletics, and nationally acclaimed music, theatre, and arts programs. With a strong emphasis on community, students can participate in intramurals, Greek life, and various service opportunities. The college's location near Des Moines provides access to a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

The best part of my college experience was the relationships I made with my peers and professors. My upper level classes had less than 10 students in them, so the professors knew all of us students by name and checked in with us in person to see how we were doing and answer questions. They made themselves available after hours and on weekends, and I was able to secure amazing letters of recommendation from them for my graduate school application because they knew me on a personal level.

Campus and vibes

Junior

I appreciate what I have learned and the assistance my professors have given me, but the administration is what has been frustrating for many of us on campus. They are not transparent when making decisions, and when they make decisions, they don't consider the feelings or well-being of the students, the people the college is literally for. There are lots of problems with acknowledging diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Much of the administration are white, cis, (most likely straight) men, and they do not stop and think before sending out statements or including students in things.

Student

My experience here at Simpson College has been fairly good. I like the teachers and student life here. The classes are well taught and enjoyable. I would like to see the dorms renovated or get better. The third floor dorms have low ceilings and less space with the way the roof is.

Student

I enjoyed my time at Simpson College. Beautiful campus, in a way, it felt similar to home for me which is a plus since I was on campus for 4 years. Lots of activities and events that were nearby. Highly recommend to consider looking into!

About Simpson College

Simpson College prioritizes campus safety, providing a welcoming community for all. Campus Security Officers patrol the campus, enforce college policies, and work closely with the Indianola Police Department. The college utilizes the SAFE (Simpson Alert For Emergencies) system for time-sensitive communication and offers programs on safety policies, crime prevention, and fire safety.

Simpson College offers various research opportunities, including the Bryan Summer Research Program in Mathematics and the Simpson College Ecological Research Program. Students can participate in undergraduate research as part of their coursework or through paid summer research positions. The college also hosts an annual Undergraduate Research Symposium to showcase student work and provides travel stipends for students to present at conferences.

While specific details on international student support are limited, Simpson College welcomes international applicants and offers study abroad programs. The college's commitment to diversity is reflected in its student body, with representation from multiple states and countries. International students are encouraged to apply for summer research programs and other opportunities.

Endowment$81,930,607
Avg faculty salary$82,812

Simpson College FAQ

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76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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