Indiana University-South Bend
The Vibe Check
Indiana University-South Bend feels like a close-knit, commuter-focused campus where students are serious about balancing education with work and life. The atmosphere is practical and supportive, with a diverse student body that includes many non-traditional learners. You'll find a strong sense of community within a bustling urban setting.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
IU South Bend is known for strong programs in Health Professions, Business, and Education, offering practical, career-focused learning. The faculty are praised for being accessible and dedicated to teaching, providing personalized attention in smaller class settings. While research opportunities exist, they are often more undergraduate-focused and tied to local community needs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in South Bend
South Bend offers a mix of city life with a small-town feel, home to the famous Notre Dame University which influences the local culture. Students can explore the downtown area with its breweries, cafes, and the Studebaker National Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities along the St. Joseph River. The city's revitalization provides growing opportunities for internships and part-time jobs.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,947):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe, with campus police and standard security measures in place. As it's located in an urban area, students should practice typical city awareness, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition and low net price, especially for in-state students.
- ✓ Strong, practical programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Business.
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for a wide range of students.
- ✓ Part of the larger Indiana University system, allowing for credit transfers.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation (35.9%) and retention (66.8%) rates can be a concern.
- ✗ Primarily a commuter campus, which means a less traditional 'college town' social scene.
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing and a quieter nightlife compared to larger universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
IU South Bend is primarily known for its strong, career-oriented programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Education. It serves as a key educational hub for the North Central Indiana region, offering accessible and affordable higher education with a focus on serving a diverse, often non-traditional student population.
No, it is not considered a highly selective school. With an acceptance rate of 85.99%, it is an accessible institution for most applicants. While meeting the average SAT score of 1072 can strengthen an application, the university admits a wide range of students, focusing more on potential and fit.
Campus life at IU South Bend is more subdued and practical than at a large residential college. Since many students commute, the social scene is centered around student organizations, campus events, and academic groups. Students often engage with the wider South Bend community for entertainment and activities, creating a blend of campus and city life.
Yes, for in-state students, it represents an excellent financial investment. The combination of low tuition, a very low average net price, and solid median earnings after graduation ($44,947) creates a strong return on investment. The value is particularly high for students pursuing high-demand fields like nursing or business.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 7,176
- In-State Tuition $8,179
- Out-of-State $22,043
- Zip Code 46615
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a remarkably low average net price of $8,364 and in-state tuition under $8,200, this university offers exceptional financial value. The 10-year median earnings of $44,947 provide a solid return on investment, especially for Indiana residents. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is less compelling compared to other public options.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.