Applying as an international student
Guidelines for international students applying to the Iowa MBA are as follows:
Undergraduate degree
You must hold either a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or an equivalent degree from another country as determined by the Office of Admissions.
If you are admitted, the Office of International Admissions requires you to submit your official marks sheets (transcripts) and diploma, as well as a translated copy if the original is not in English.
English language requirement
TEST | MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS | HOW TO SEND |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT / TOEFL iBT Home Edition (taken before Jan. 2026) | Total score 100 | Send via ETS using institution code 6681 and department code 01 |
| TOEFL iBT / TOEFL iBT Home Edition (taken after Jan. 2026) | Total score 5.0 | Send via ETS using institution code 6681 and department code 01 |
| IELTS | Overall score of 7 with no subscore less than 6 | Send through your IELTS Testing Center |
| DuoLingo (DET) | Score of 120 or above | Send via DuoLingo English Test |
TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international applicants. You may get an English language test waiver if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. To understand specific requirements and to see waiver eligibility, visit Graduate College English Proficiency Requirements.
*All IELTS and Duolingo test takers will be required to take the on-campus English Proficiency Evaluation.
Reporting your score
TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years. Apply before your scores expire. You can apply with an unofficial score report; if admitted, you’ll need to order an official TOEFL or IELTS score report and have it sent to the University of Iowa. Our institution code is 6681.
Health insurance requirement
International students located in the United States must have health insurance to attend the University of Iowa. You can submit proof of coverage through the MyUI student information portal after you’re admitted. If you're studying outside the U.S., there's no need to provide proof of health insurance.
Visas
We do not issue F-1 (student) visas for our students. The most common type of visa for our students is an H-1B, sponsored by their employer, but different types are also eligible for admission.
Location limitations
Due to firewalls or government restrictions that affect the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), we are unable to admit students who will be studying in China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the region of Crimea.