Overview
Enrollment
Ball State University, located in Muncie, Indiana, approximately 60 miles northeast of Indianapolis, is a public institution founded in 1918. Known for its campus sprawl of red-brick buildings and green spaces, Ball State offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including noteworthy offerings in education, architecture, and telecommunications. With a moderately selective admissions process, the university attracts a diverse student body to both its suburban setting and vibrant campus life. Ball State provides on-campus living options through a range of residence halls and apartment complexes. While the university participates in NCAA Division I athletics as the Cardinals, it is particularly recognized for its men's and women's swimming programs.
In the most recent statistical year 22,859 prospective students applied, and 15,761 were granted admission. Of those admitted 3,477 enrolled in the school. 13,797 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 5,980 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $8,434 plus fees of $2,006. BSU is ranked 547 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
BSU is rated within the top 48% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 6 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Ball State University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#547 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#166 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#16 in Best Colleges in Indiana
#4 in Best Public Colleges in Indiana
#340 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#13 in Best Value Colleges in Indiana
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1090/1260 |
| ACT | 23/28 |
| GPA | 3.52 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Low |
| Application Fee | $60 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Indiana Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,454 |
| Other Fees | $2,006 |
| Room and Board | $10,904 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,882 |
| Total One Year Cost | $25,680 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,454 |
| Other Fees | $2,006 |
| Room and Board | $10,904 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,882 |
| Total One Year Cost | $43,164 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 18% |
| Business | 16% |
| Education | 12% |
| Communication | 9% |
| Health Professions | 8% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering BSU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=150136 IPEDS survey data for Ball State University.
Current students may use the Ball State University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.