Overview: Iowa State University
Iowa State University of Science and Technology (Iowa State University, or ISU) was founded in 1858 and is located in Ames, Iowa, United States. As a public, land-grant, and research-intensive university, ISU has evolved into a comprehensive institution known for both teaching and research excellence. With over 29,800 students enrolled as of Fall 2023 and more than 100 undergraduate majors across eight colleges, Iowa State offers a broad academic portfolio on its 1,900-acre main campus. The institution’s rich heritage and significant scale position it as a pillar of higher education in the American Midwest.
Engineering, agriculture, and life sciences are flagship areas at ISU, with the College of Engineering consistently ranked in the top 25 among U.S. public institutions (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). The university is home to leading programs in veterinary medicine, design, computer science, and business. ISU is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach, integrating research and real-world problem-solving into the curriculum. Faculty and students engage in significant externally funded research, including partnerships with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory. The institution is also a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and maintains collaborative global research initiatives. ISU alumni, including Nobel laureates and MacArthur Fellows, exemplify its tradition of achievement.
Student life at Iowa State is vibrant, with over 800 student organizations ranging from professional societies to cultural and service clubs. The campus community values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming international students from more than 110 countries. On-campus housing, extensive athletics with Division I teams, and a renowned arts and theater scene foster a dynamic extracurricular life. Comprehensive student support services—including academic advising, mental health resources, and leadership programs—ensure that all students can thrive. University traditions and campus festivals such as Veishea (historic campus event) further cultivate a strong sense of belonging and engagement.
Iowa State University’s mission centers on advancing knowledge to improve lives through education, research, and outreach. The institution is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and global citizenship while upholding integrity, diversity, and excellence as core values.
