
University of Idaho
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
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and University of Idaho’s admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Getting in is the hard part. University of Idaho admitted 75.5% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.
Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.
The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Idaho actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.
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.
The essays
Supplemental essay prompts
The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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 you will actually pay
The sticker price is about $23,738, but that is not 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.
Campus life
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
University of Idaho FAQ
- How hard is it to get into University of Idaho?
- Very hard. University of Idaho admits 75.5% of applicants, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $14,831.
- Is University of Idaho worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $54,670 ten years after enrolling, and 59% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly 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. Join the waitlist to get in early.
One email when Spike opens. No card, no account. About the waitlist.