Research.com
Ball State University logo

Ball State University

2000 West University Avenue, Muncie, IN 47306, USA

Ball State University award
Ball State University award
US ranking
position: 134
Tuition & fees per year: $11,242
Acceptance rate: 72.00%
Median alumni salary: $42,646
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1110 SAT, 24 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What is the accreditation of Ball State University?

Ball State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an organization recognized by the U. S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This regional accreditation affirms that the university meets rigorous standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness.

In addition to the overall institutional accreditation, several specific programs at Ball State University have received specialized accreditation from professional bodies. These accreditations ensure that individual academic departments adhere to standards set by industry and academic leaders in their respective fields, enhancing the credibility and value of the education provided.

What are the admission requirements at Ball State University?

Ball State University requires prospective students to have completed a high school diploma or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Applicants must submit their secondary school academic records and have a minimum recommended GPA. While class rank is advised, it is not mandatory. The university requires evidence of college program readiness and mandates that students provide a TOEFL score to demonstrate English proficiency. Other standardized tests are recommended but not compulsory.

Ball State University does not have an open admission policy, and dual credit or direct credit from other programs is not accepted; however, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted. Although computer ownership is not required, computer leasing options are available for students.

Admission statistics reflect a broad and competitive applicant pool. The acceptance rate stands at 72%, indicating a moderately selective admissions process. The average SAT score for enrolled students is approximately 1110, with a breakdown of 550 in Math and 560 in Writing, placing these scores in the lower 40th percentile nationally. The mean ACT score is 24, aligning with the bottom 50th percentile. These figures suggest that the university admits students with a range of academic backgrounds, with many performing at or near average standardized test levels.

What are the application fees and waivers at Ball State University?

Ball State University charges an application fee that prospective students must pay when submitting their admission materials. However, the university provides options for fee waivers to ease the financial burden for eligible applicants. These waivers are typically available to students who demonstrate financial need or who participate in specific programs that qualify them for fee assistance. Applicants are encouraged to check the university's admissions website or contact the admissions office directly to learn about the documentation required to request a waiver and the criteria that determine eligibility.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Ball State University?

Ball State University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus. This presence offers students the opportunity to engage with military training and leadership development programs as part of their college experience. Prospective students interested in combining higher education with military preparation can explore the offerings provided through this on-campus ROTC unit.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Ball State University?

Ball State University welcomes transfer students for several terms throughout the year, specifically the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Prospective transfer applicants can take advantage of the university's policies that support credit transfer, accepting credits from other accredited institutions to facilitate a smoother transition into their chosen programs.

The university also recognizes standardized credit-by-examination programs, including CLEP (both subject-specific and general exams) and DANTES, which can help students earn credits prior to enrollment. Furthermore, Ball State University considers recommendations as part of the transfer application process, allowing applicants to submit letters of endorsement to strengthen their candidacy.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Ball State University?

Ball State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs include faculty-led trips, semester and year-long exchanges, and summer courses abroad. The university partners with institutions worldwide, enabling students to study in diverse regions such as Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

Faculty-led programs typically focus on specific academic themes and provide structured learning combined with cultural immersion in a short-term format. Semester and year-long exchange programs allow students to enroll directly at partner universities, earning credits toward their degrees while experiencing life in a different educational environment. Summer study options often concentrate on intensive courses or research projects that complement students' academic pursuits.

Ball State University emphasizes support services for students who participate in these programs, including pre-departure orientations, academic advising tailored to international study, and assistance with visas and travel arrangements. This helps ensure students maximize the benefits of their time abroad while maintaining academic progress.

Ball State University Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1110
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 24
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 72%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 12-17
ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

Ball State University Admissions

Applicants Total: 28,668
Admission Total: 20,525
Enrolled Total: 3,826
Women
Men

Ball State University Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1110

Median composite ACT score

24

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

1%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

37%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Recommended

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Data not available

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

No

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

No

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

Ball State University Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring, Summer