Chances of Getting Into Iona University
New Rochelle, New York • Private University • #40 National • Founded 1940
Iona Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Iona SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Iona University
Iona University (formerly Iona College) is a private university in New Rochelle, New York, located just 20 minutes from Manhattan. Known for its strong business school, growing health sciences programs, and welcoming campus community, Iona offers a personalized education with NYC at its doorstep.
Top Programs
What Makes Iona Unique
- Only 20 minutes from Manhattan — the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation connects students to NYC business
- Recently transitioned from a college to a university — expanding programs and campus facilities
- LaPenta School of Business is AACSB-accredited — a mark held by fewer than 5% of business schools globally
- Strong MAAC athletics — Iona basketball has a passionate following and NCAA tournament history
- Welcoming, diverse campus community rooted in the Christian Brothers educational tradition
Iona Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Iona Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Iona: Admission Tips
Iona is test-optional — focus on GPA and extracurriculars if your scores aren't competitive
Business school is the most popular program — highlight quantitative and leadership skills
Apply by February 15 for best scholarship consideration
Mention proximity to NYC and specific internship/career interests in your essays
95% of students receive financial aid — apply for FAFSA early to maximize your package
The Brutal Truth About Iona Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 80% acceptance rate, Iona rejected over 2,200 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Iona, having a 3.3 GPA and 1100 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Iona doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Iona genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 80%-acceptance-rate basket.
Iona Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Iona University?
Iona University has an acceptance rate of 80% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 11,000+ applicants, approximately 850 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Iona?
The average GPA of admitted students at Iona University is 3.3. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.15, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Iona?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Iona students is 1010-1190. The average SAT score is 1100. For ACT, the range is 20-25 with an average of 23.
Is Iona hard to get into?
Yes, Iona University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 80%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Iona cost?
Tuition at Iona University is $43,430 per year, with total cost of attendance at $60,000. However, 95% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $26,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Iona?
Your chances of getting into Iona University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 80% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at Iona
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