FAQ

How can I apply to Simpson College?

There are three ways you can apply to Simpson.  You can apply online using our online application.  You can download a Printable Version  of the application and mail it to the Simpson Office of Admissions.  Or you can apply using the Common Application.

What needs to be included with my application?

First-Year Applicant Checklist

  • Complete application for admission (no application fee required)
  • Request high school transcripts reflecting academic work completed through your junior year to be sent to the Simpson College Office of Admissions.
  • When requesting your transcript, please also have your counselor complete the counselor recommendation/high school report form.
  • Official results of the ACT and/or SAT I should be sent directly to the Office of Admissions.  Simpson ACT code is 1354; SAT-I code is 6650. SAT Subject tests are not required.

*Please click the link below for transfer and international student checklists

Transfer Admissions

International Admissions

When are applications due?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis beginning early fall and continuing on a space available basis. Admission to Simpson College is based on your academic record, extracurricular activities, and potential for success in a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. 

What tests scores and GPA are needed to be accepted?

The Simpson admission committee takes a holistic approach to admissions.  Members of the committee consider each application individually. They consider various academic factors and secondary factors as indicators of a student’s potential to succeed in Simpson’s rigorous liberal arts curriculum.   Primary factors include, but are not limited to, high school GPA, course selection, ACT or SAT scores, and academic achievement.  Secondary factors include, but are not limited to, extracurricular activities, awards, service, community involvement, work experience and the required essay.

How much does Simpson cost?

Costs for the 2012-2013 academic year are:

Tuition and fees: $29,529

Basic Residence Hall Costs: $3,860

Standard Board Charge: $4,103

Total Comprehensive Fee: $37,492

Simpson offers a variety of merit- and need-based scholarships. Financial assistance also comes in the form of grants, loans and work programs.

How do I apply for Financial Aid?

Your application for admission serves as the application for all Simpson academic awards based on academic achievement, not financial need.  For need based aid please complete the FAFSA during the spring of your senior year. Talent scholarships require an audition or portfolio and there are some additional scholarships you can apply for.  To learn more about Simpson scholarships please visit the Financial Aid Scholarship page.

Where should I mail official Transcripts?

Office of Admissions
701 North C Street
Indianola, IA 50125

What is the school code for the ACT or SAT?

Simpson College ACT code (list Simpson to receive your ACT scores)
1354

Simpson College SAT-I code (list Simpson to receive your SAT scores)
6650

What is the school code for the FAFSA?

Simpson College school code (to list Simpson on the FAFSA form)
001887

How can I sign up for a visit to campus?

There are numerous ways to visit Simpson College.  Whether you are looking for a personalized visit, overnight stay, or a full day visit experience there is no better way to experience Simpson for yourself than coming to campus.  Learn more on our visit page.

Where can I stay when I come to visit Simpson?

When coming to visit the Simpson campus you have several options for overnight accommodations.  There are two hotels in Indianola listed below.  Simpson is also a short drive from the Des Moines area where there are numerous hotel options, including some listed below.

Apple Tree Inn

Super 8 Indianola

Radisson Hotel Des Moines Airport

Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport

Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport Conference Center

Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown

Marriott Downtown Des Moines

How do I know if classes I have taken elsewhere are transferable?

Simpson requires a 3 or higher on AP exams to receive credit (remember you must take the AP exam to receive credit.  Taking an AP course on its own does not qualify you for credit.)  Simpson recognizes the IB program and grants credit on a course by course basis for examination scores of 4 or better on the Higher Level courses only. A maximum of 24 credit hours may be earned through the IB.

Simpson accepts credit from other accredited institutions when a similar course is offered on the Simpson campus.  When choosing courses we recommend choosing general academic courses as opposed to unique elective or career preparation courses.  We are happy to conduct a credit evaluation by request.

What sports are offered at Simpson?

Simpson athletes compete at the NCAA Division III level in the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.  Simpson offers 19 competitive sports including Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Wrestling, Softball, and Women’s Volleyball.  For the less competitive athlete, Simpson also offers various intramurals each semester.  Learn more about Simpson Storm.

Are freshman required to live on campus?

Living on campus is an integral part of the Simpson Experience.  We require freshman to live on campus for their first year, however a request can be made to be a commuter if family lives near campus.  The majority of Simpson Students choose to live on campus all four years.  Learn more about housing options by visiting the Residence Life section.

What type of computer should I bring to Simpson?

There are computer labs all over campus: the library, the science building, the student center, and even right in the residence halls.  However, if you choose to bring your own computer, the following chart lists the required and recommended computer system configurations to connect to the Simpson network.

Required of All Computers

•802.11 b or g (required for a wireless connection)

- and / or -

•25’ Ethernet patch cord (required for a wired connection)

 


Macintosh Desktop or Notebook

•Mac OS 10.3.X or higher

•All Mac OS critical updates

(Required anti-virus software provided by Simpson College)


Windows Desktop or Notebook

•Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7

•All Microsoft Windows critical updates

(Required anti-virus software provided by Simpson College)


 Recommended System Configurations


•Current Intel processor

•4 GB memory or greater

•250 GB hard drive or greater

•10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet

•17-inch display (desktop only)

•802.11 a/b/g wireless networking (Notebook only)

•Mac OS 10.6 operating system

•Office 2011 for Mac – Home and Student Edition
•Current Intel/compatible processor

•4 GB memory or greater

•250 GB hard drive or greater

•10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet

•17-inch display (desktop only)

•802.11 a/b/g wireless networking (Notebook only)

•Microsoft Windows 7 operating system

•Office Home and Student 2010


When do I register for classes?

First-year students register for classes at Summer Orientation.

Are there jobs available on campus?

There are numerous opportunities to work on campus.  Students awarded work study have a variety of options including positions in residence life, admissions, registrar, athletics, and many more.