
Indianola, IAprivate nonprofitsimpson.edu/
Simpson College is a small, welcoming liberal arts school in Indianola, Iowa, where nearly 90% of applicants get in—but don’t mistake accessibility for lack of rigor. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning (92% of students participate in high-impact experiences like study abroad) and a tight-knit campus where 93% live on-site, Simpson delivers a personalized education heavy on leadership and service. Its business and nutrition programs draw particular attention, and graduates typically earn $36,427 within a year of leaving.
Simpson College is decidedly not a hyper-selective institution—with an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. hovering between 85-89%, it’s accessible to most applicants. Mid-range SAT scores (890–1250) and ACT scores (reported elsewhere as 31–33, though this seems anomalously high) are typical for admitted students. The college offers an early action plan, allowing eager applicants to secure their spots sooner. Notably, Simpson doesn’t require admission applications for certain participation opportunities, suggesting a flexible approach to engagement.
Simpson’s academic vibe leans practical and participatory: 92% of undergraduates engage in high-impact experiences like study abroad, internships, or research. The most popular majors reflect this career-ready focus—business (29% of students), foods and nutrition (25%), and sport management stand out. The college emphasizes leadership and global perspectives across its programs, with smaller departments like liberal arts (19%) and accounting (16%) rounding out the offerings. A 94% post-graduation success rate (employment or further education within six months) suggests the approach works.
Life at Simpson revolves around its residential campus—93% of students live in college housing, fostering a tight-knit community. Described as “beautiful and well-maintained” with a “homey atmosphere,” the campus hosts scores of clubs, including cultural groups like Latinos Unidos. The Campus Activities Board organizes events to “stress and unwind” (a charming typo implying both relaxation and study breaks), while dining and housing aim to create “a vibrant community.” It’s the kind of place where the yearbook likely gets heavy use.
Simpson’s 4.5/5-star rating from Money magazine highlights its value, with strengths in graduation rates and student-faculty interaction. Graduates earn a median $36,427 within a year—modest but aligned with regional norms. The six-year graduation rate (exact figure unspecified) contributes to its reputation for seeing students through to completion. While not a feeder to elite grad programs, Simpson clearly prepares students for steady next steps: 94% land jobs or continue education promptly.
With a sticker price of $63,526, Simpson isn’t cheap—but every admitted student gets at least $32,000 in scholarships, drastically lowering the Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost.. The college emphasizes affordability through grants and aid packages, offering a net price calculator to estimate true costs. While no Pell Grant stats are provided, the focus on accessibility suggests aid is robust for those who need it.
Simpson’s sweet spot is its balance of open admissions and serious outcomes. It’s a place where B students can thrive via hands-on learning (92% participation in internships, research, or study abroad) and leave with employable skills—especially in business or nutrition. The tiny campus (like a “small town,” per its materials) ensures no one gets lost, while the 4.5-star Money rating confirms its value proposition. Ideal for midwestern students seeking a supportive, activity-packed liberal arts experience without cutthroat competition.