Indiana University-South Bend
Acceptance rate
83.8%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$22,811
In-state $8,424
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,083
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
18.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 36.3%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Indiana University-South Bend (IU South Bend) is a prominent public university located in South Bend, Indiana. Established in 1916, it serves as the third largest campus in the Indiana University system. One of the university's standout features is its commitment to providing a diverse and inclusive environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. IU South Bend offers over 100 academic programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, and health sciences, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. The university prides itself on its strong emphasis on student engagement, community service, and experiential learning, which enhances the educational experience and prepares students for successful careers.
The campus itself is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, providing students with the resources they need to excel in their studies. Additionally, IU South Bend boasts a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events that encourage participation and foster a sense of community. The university's athletic teams, known as the Titans, compete in various sports, promoting physical fitness and teamwork among students. With a focus on both academic and personal development, IU South Bend creates an enriching environment that not only prepares students for their future careers but also encourages them to become active and responsible members of society.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Indiana University-South Bend
Indiana University-South Bend has experienced significant changes in several key metrics over the past decade, notably in tuition rates, graduation rates, and student enrollment. The steady increase in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students is alarming. In 2014, in-state students paid $6,816, while by 2024, this amount has risen to $8,179, representing an increase of approximately 20% over ten years. For out-of-state students, the tuition has surged from $17,778 to $22,043, which is an increase of around 24%. This upward trend in tuition costs may contribute to the noticeable decline in student enrollment; undergraduate enrollment dropped from 7,860 in 2013 to just 3,753 in 2023.
Furthermore, graduation rates have shown a positive trend, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which increased from 4.7% in 2013 to 14.6% in 2023. This growth suggests that the institution is making strides in supporting students to complete their degrees on time, despite the drop in overall student numbers. The 150% graduation rate also shows improvement, reaching over 38% by 2023, highlighting the institution's commitment to student success.
Retention rates have fluctuated, but the latest figure of 66% in 2023 indicates that while challenges exist, a majority of students remain engaged in their studies. The student-faculty ratio has remained stable at around 12 to 14 students per faculty member, which can be seen as a positive factor in providing adequate support to students.
In summary, while Indiana University-South Bend faces challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment, its improvements in graduation rates and retention suggest a focused effort to enhance the educational experience for its students. The balance between maintaining affordability and ensuring student success will be crucial for the university moving forward.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Chicago, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- IUSB, IU SB, IU South Bend
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Brian Pappas (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 5745204872
- City
- South Bend, Indiana
- Address
- 1700 Mishawaka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615-7111
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 77.0%, women 78.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Indiana University-South Bend
The admission data from Indiana University-South Bend over the years reflects significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. Starting in 2009, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants were relatively high, with rates of approximately 83% and 85% respectively. However, there was a noticeable decline in these rates until around 2014, where the male acceptance rate dropped to about 69% and the female rate to around 71%.
From 2015 onwards, the acceptance rates began to stabilize and even improve slightly, peaking in 2021 with male and female rates of approximately 85% and 88% respectively. This suggests a possible increase in the university's selectivity, which could be attributed to a combination of factors including shifts in applicant demographics and institutional efforts to attract a higher quality of applicants.
The enrollment numbers also tell an interesting story. After peaking in 2010 with 1,206 new students, there was a general downward trend until 2021, where enrollment dipped to 697. However, the subsequent years show a rebound, with 771 students enrolling in 2023. The number of denied applications has fluctuated significantly, indicating a potential increase in the number of applicants over the years, which could be aligned with national trends in higher education where universities are facing increased competition for student enrollment.
Overall, this data indicates that Indiana University-South Bend is navigating the complex landscape of higher education admissions, adapting to changing applicant pools, and striving to maintain a balance between accessibility and selectivity.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 29% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Indiana University-South Bend
Over the years, Indiana University-South Bend has demonstrated a fluctuating trend in the submission and performance of standardized test scores among its admitted students. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown an overall increase from 72% in 2007 to a peak of 91% in 2020. However, this figure saw a significant drop in the subsequent years, with only 19% of applicants submitting SAT scores in 2023. This decline could be indicative of a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, the interquartile range for SAT reading and mathematics scores has generally improved over the years, with the 25th percentile scores increasing from 410-520 in 2007 to 490-610 by 2022. This upward trajectory in scores suggests that the institution is attracting more academically prepared students. However, the drop in the number of students submitting scores and the percentage of applicants could raise questions about the overall competitiveness of the applicant pool in recent years.
Additionally, the consistent rise in the 75th percentile scores reflects a positive shift in the academic profile of admitted students, with scores reaching up to 580 by 2021. This not only aligns with national trends where institutions are becoming more selective, but it also highlights the university's commitment to maintaining high academic standards.
As the university navigates these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends impact overall enrollment, diversity, and academic outcomes in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,815 applicants in 2025, 83.8% admitted
2,360 admitted 455 not admitted Yield 39.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's28 (14% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's25 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's14 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's13 (0% international)
- Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's11 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's10 (10% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Indiana University-South Bend
The graduation data from Indiana University-South Bend for 2023 reveals some interesting trends in various degree programs. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a total of 56 graduates, of which one is an international student. This highlights the importance of nursing education, especially in light of the ongoing global healthcare challenges and the increasing demand for qualified nurses.
In contrast, the Business/Commerce program shows a different trend, as it produced 27 master's degree graduates and five international students. This indicates a growing interest in business education, reflecting the global economic landscape where business acumen is increasingly valued. This trend is significant as businesses adapt to new challenges, including those posed by the digital economy.
Furthermore, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program had 59 bachelor's degree graduates, with one being an international student. This suggests that while there is a steady interest in liberal arts, the proportion of international students remains relatively low compared to other fields, such as nursing and business.
Interestingly, many programs reported no graduates at the associate or doctorate levels, which may indicate potential areas for growth or restructuring within the university's offerings. The absence of graduates in certain fields could suggest a need for the university to assess and possibly revitalize these programs to align with student interests and job market demands.
Overall, the data reflects shifting educational priorities and highlights the importance of adapting academic programs to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $33,642 | |||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | - | |||
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $60,408 | |||
| Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other. | - | |||
| Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist. | $61,103-$73,687 | |||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $61,103-$73,687 | |||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | $64,248 | |||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | |||
| Nursing Education. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $84,823-$103,303 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $84,823-$103,303 | |||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $84,823-$103,303 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $51,376-$95,285 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Labor Studies. | - | |||
| Actuarial Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $46,418 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $46,418 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | $45,493 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $45,493 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $45,493 | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $45,493 | |||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $33,204 | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $33,204 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | |||
| Social Work. | $39,822-$50,854 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,799 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $29,973 | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $29,973 | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $44,101 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,930 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | |||
| Mathematics and Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computational Science. | - | |||
| Sustainability Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $39,028 | |||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $39,028 | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $39,487 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Informatics. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | $58,530 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| German Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
Students
4,631 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 65.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,713
- First-year undergraduates 840
- Graduate students 548
- Transfers and others 530
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,083)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Indiana University-South Bend in 2023
The student composition at Indiana University-South Bend for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into gender distribution and diversity among different student categories. Among the new undergraduate students, there were 771 individuals, with 36.6% identifying as male and 63.4% as female. This trend of a higher female proportion continues into the continuing undergraduate students, where 2614 individuals reported a male percentage of 34.6% and a female percentage of 65.4%.
Interestingly, the trend of higher female representation persists across undergraduate transfer students and graduate students as well. For transfer students, the gender ratio was 34.2% male and 65.8% female, while graduate students showed an even more pronounced female dominance with only 22.9% male and 77.1% female.
This consistent gender disparity across all categories may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise. Additionally, the diversity within the student body, particularly among underrepresented groups, is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment. However, specific data on the racial and ethnic demographics of these students is limited, as details about the continuing students and graduate demographics remain unavailable.
Overall, the gender distribution at Indiana University-South Bend indicates a significant female presence, which is an encouraging sign for gender diversity in higher education. Moving forward, there will be a need for the institution to focus on enhancing diversity across all demographics to create a well-rounded educational experience for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Indiana University-South Bend (2023)
The student age composition data from Indiana University-South Bend reveals some intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body. Notably, the largest age group is the 18-19 range, comprising a significant portion of undergraduate females, with 754 students, while the male counterpart in the same age range numbers 385. This indicates a strong representation of younger students, reflecting national trends where many students transition directly from high school to higher education.
The age group of 20-21 remains robust, with 692 females and 318 males enrolled, suggesting that many students continue their education after their first year. As we move into the 22-24 age range, there is a noticeable drop in the undergraduate male population, but an increase in graduate males, indicating a shift towards advanced studies. The growth of graduate students in this age group could reflect a broader trend in higher education, where students are increasingly pursuing postgraduate degrees.
Interestingly, the data shows a decline in enrollment numbers for students aged 25-29 and older. This pattern could point to challenges faced by non-traditional students, including work-life balance and financial constraints, which are common obstacles in pursuing higher education at older ages.
Overall, the gender ratio appears to favor female students across most age categories, particularly among undergraduates. This trend mirrors broader educational statistics showing that women are increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment. Such demographic insights can help the university tailor its programs and support services to meet the needs of its diverse student body, ensuring that both traditional and non-traditional students are supported in their academic journeys.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
64 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016
31 in 2025 · 11.8% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Indiana University-South Bend
The data on international student enrollment at Indiana University-South Bend from 2004 to 2023 reveals significant trends and fluctuations. Over the years, the total number of undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at 7,796 in 2011. However, the number of international undergraduates has seen a decline, dropping from 202 in 2004 to just 52 by 2023, indicating a worrying trend for the university's global appeal.
The percentage of international students among undergraduates has also decreased dramatically, falling from 3.32% in 2004 to a mere 1.39% in 2023. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, and potentially the global pandemic, which disrupted educational pathways and led to a decrease in student mobility.
In the graduate segment, while the total number of graduate students has fluctuated, the proportion of international students has also decreased, especially notable from 2019 onwards when the percentage dropped to 4.89% in 2023. The number of international graduate students fell to 28, highlighting a broader trend where universities are struggling to attract and retain international talent.
This pattern reflects a larger concern among U.S. higher education institutions, as many face challenges in maintaining their international student populations. As the world becomes more interconnected yet complex, universities like Indiana University-South Bend must develop strategies to enhance their attractiveness to international students, ensuring they can continue to foster a diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,995
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $22,811
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,424
- Room and board
- $10,184
- Graduate tuition
- $20,256
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$78.3M
Expenses$63.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference
Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Soccer | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 12 |
| Soccer | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 4 | 3 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Notre DameNotre Dame · 2.8 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Saint Mary's CollegeNotre Dame · 3.4 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs · 21.7 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 52.8 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 53.7 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 71.5 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 73.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 73.9 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 75.0 mi
U.S. News #95
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Indiana University-South Bend:
-
University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th in the 2024 US News rankings, Notre Dame is a prestigious research university known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and a commitment to social justice.
-
Saint Mary's College - This women's liberal arts college is ranked 82nd in the nation. Saint Mary's is renowned for its strong emphasis on personal development, leadership, and community service.
-
Valparaiso University - With a ranking of 201, Valparaiso offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a values-based education and a strong sense of community.
-
Kalamazoo College - Ranked 70th, this liberal arts college is recognized for its immersive learning experiences and commitment to global education, providing students with opportunities for study abroad and internships.
-
University of Chicago - A prestigious institution ranked 12th, the University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academics, distinguished faculty, and a vibrant intellectual community.
-
Northwestern University - This top-ranking university (9th) is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education and strong emphasis on research across various fields.
These institutions offer a variety of educational experiences and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Indiana University-South Bend
The crime statistics at Indiana University-South Bend over the past decade reflect notable fluctuations in reported incidents. From 2013 to 2016, there was a significant spike in the crime rate, peaking at 8.40 incidents per 1,000 students in 2016. This period indicates a troubling trend that may have raised concerns among students and faculty alike. However, it is noteworthy that the crime rate has steadily decreased since then, reaching its lowest point in 2023 with only 2.54 incidents per 1,000 students.
A closer examination of the data reveals that while some categories of crime, such as drug-related arrests and domestic violence incidents, were present, the overall trend suggests a positive decline in violence and criminal activity on campus. For instance, the number of gun-related incidents and cases of alcohol-related arrests have consistently remained low in recent years, indicating successful preventive measures and possibly improved campus security protocols.
This downward trend is encouraging, particularly in light of national concerns regarding campus safety and crime rates. Institutions are increasingly under pressure to create safer environments for students, and the data from Indiana University-South Bend serves as a case study for effective crime reduction strategies. The commitment to fostering a secure campus is vital in not only retaining current students but also attracting prospective ones.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Indiana University-South Bend include Michael P. Kube-McDowell (Author of science fiction and non-fiction), Rudy Yakym (U.S. Representative from Indiana) and David Bell (Suspense novelist and English professor).
-
Michael P. Kube-McDowell 1954–
Author of science fiction and non-fiction
-
Rudy Yakym 1984–
U.S. Representative from Indiana
-
David Bell 1969–
Suspense novelist and English professor
-
Shelli Yoder 1968–
Indiana state senator and former Miss Indiana
-
Sarah Gordon
Computer security researcher
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.