If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering whether or not your child has a shot at getting into Indiana University, Bloomington. While there’s no copy-and-paste format for a successful application to Indiana University (or to any school, for that matter), we’re going to dive into some of the features that unite the students who gain admission to Indiana University. But first, let’s look at what sets Indiana apart from other schools. 

About Indiana University

Indiana University is located in Bloomington, a city that grew up alongside the university. With over 38,000 undergrads, Indiana is a mighty big school. Indiana is known for strong campus traditions and Big Ten Athletics, so students won’t be wanting for community. Academically, Indiana’s strong performers are its business, public affairs, and computer science programs. 

Indiana University has an acceptance rate of around 78%, meaning it’s not a competitive spot to get into. Still, it’s a well-respected university with great resources and a vast alumni network. 

Indiana University Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Indiana University and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Indiana University admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Indiana?

The closest we have to GPA data for Indiana University is the class rank data from the Class of 2028: 

GPA			Percentage of Indiana University Class of 2028
Percent in top tenth of high school graduating class			28.9%
Percent in top quarter of high school graduating class			62.3%
Percent in top half of high school graduating class			93.1%
Percent in bottom half of high school graduating class			6.9%
Percent in bottom quarter of high school graduating class			0.5%

Because Indiana University provides such thorough data about the high school GPA percentages of their enrolled students, there’s no guesswork needed when it comes to comparing a student’s candidacy to the Class of 2030, for example. Students should certainly be in the top half of their high school class, and in Ivy Coach’s opinion, the higher the GPA the better of course. Even though GPA isn’t the only thing that makes a successful college application, it should never be something that distracts or detracts from a student’s candidacy.

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into Indiana University?  

The average SAT score for the Indiana University Class of 2028 was a 1290, and the average ACT score was a 30. Though Indiana University is test-optional, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Indiana University?

While Indiana University does not explicitly state any minimum high school course preparation for applicants, we at Ivy Coach know that colleges like Indiana University want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Indiana University Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Indiana University is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Indiana University would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

 Indiana Application Requirements

Indiana University accepts the Common App. Indiana University does not require letters of recommendation, but they say they “highly recommend” them, and we at Ivy Coach would advise you not to take that recommendation lightly. They ask the following supplemental question: 

• In 200–400 words, you’ll be asked to describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. If you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, you may share those experiences and how you overcame them. Please note that this essay may be used for scholarship consideration.
  

Who Should Students Ask For Letters of Recommendation For Indiana? 

Indiana University applicants should ask two junior year teachers in core subjects. Obviously, the applicant should have a good relationship with the teacher or at least have performed well in their class. In addition, at least one of the recommender’s subject area should be related to the student’s hook: if a student’s singular hook is studying fruit fly DNA, it wouldn’t make sense if their recommenders were their History and English teachers. 

Does Indiana University Require an Interview? 

Indiana University does not require an interview, and, in fact, they don’t even offer one!

What Are Indiana’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Action applications to Indiana University are due November 1st. Regular Decision applications are due February 1st. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Indiana University

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Indiana University, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Indiana University, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.