University of Idaho campus
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University of Idaho

Moscow, ID · Public · 7,747 students

The ivy-covered Moscow campus offers a supportive community, complemented by a statewide presence.

Acceptance rate

75.5%

SAT (mid 50%)

990–1230

Avg net price

$14,831

after aid

Testing

Optional

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of Idaho admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

University of Idaho admitted 75.5% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 990–1230 on the SAT and 20–26 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of Idaho actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Discovery, Research, Hands-On Learning

As Idaho’s first and only Carnegie R1 research university, you can choose from more than 200 areas of study and gain hands-on experience that puts learning into action.

The curriculum offers over 200 areas of study, from agriculture to anatomy, with an emphasis on gaining hands-on experience.

  • Carnegie R1 Research UniversityIdaho's first and only R1 institution
  • 200+ Areas of StudyAgriculture, anatomy, fine arts, business administration
  • Hands-on ExperienceLearning into action, career-building

Verified from uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu and uidaho.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional

Verified from uidaho.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Describe your interest in joining the Honors Program at the University of Idaho. What motivates you to join the program and the honors community? What about an honors education appeals to you and why?

    Up to 250 words

  • Describe your proudest academic or personal achievement. Why does it stand out in your memory and why is it important to you? Please limit yourself to just one example.

    Up to 250 words

  • Describe some of your academic or personal goals. Why are these goals important to you and what steps have you taken to accomplish these goals? Provide at least one example that demonstrates your perseverance.

    Up to 250 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from uidaho.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $23,738. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $14,831.

U of I keeps education affordable with low tuition, generous scholarships, WUE opportunities and financial aid, available for recent grads, transfer students and out-of-state learners.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $54,670.

Verified from uidaho.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Psychology, General8% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods5% of degrees
  • Marketing4% of degrees
  • Criminology3% of degrees
  • Mechanical Engineering3% of degrees
  • Animal Sciences3% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Join clubs, try new sports and build lifelong friendships on a beautiful campus.”

On the ivy-covered Moscow campus, students find a vibrant, welcoming community where they can build lasting connections with fellow Vandals.

Quick answers

What do people ask about University of Idaho?

Is University of Idaho test-optional?
For the current cycle, standardized testing at University of Idaho is optional.
How hard is it to get into University of Idaho?
Very hard. University of Idaho admits 75.5% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 990 to 1230 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does University of Idaho cost?
The list price is about $23,738. After aid, families pay $14,831 on average.
Is University of Idaho worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $54,670 ten years after enrolling. 59% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about University of Idaho.

Spike answers from University of Idaho’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.