Apply to 91��

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Apply to 91��

We’re here to tell you what you need to know, connect you to resources, and answer any questions you have.

Admission to 91�� is highly selective, which simply means we get more applicants than we have room for in our classes. With that said, you can stand out from the rest by taking a challenging, balanced high school curriculum, and applying Early Decision can certainly increase your chances.

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive community of scholars from a variety of backgrounds and with different worldviews. We believe that interacting with others of differing viewpoints can introduce you to new perspectives and expand your thinking — plus, it makes life more interesting.

The Application Essay

How can I write my best college essay?

Test Scores

Should I submit standardized test scores at a test-optional college?

After Applying

What happens to my college application after I submit it?

First-Year Applicants

We’re here to help you with the application process and answer any questions you might have.

Let's begin

Meet your admission counselor

Application Requirements

There’s no minimum GPA or test score to get into 91��. We look at the full scope of your application to determine if we’re the best fit for you.

Explore Requirements
Early Decision Applicants

If we’re your first choice, you should consider applying Early Decision. Not only is the acceptance rate higher than with Regular Decision, but you’ll receive your admission decision months earlier. That’s true whether you apply Early Decision I or Early Decision II.

Apply Early
International Applicants

One in four 91�� students come from outside of the United States, representing almost 50 countries and speaking more than 60 languages. We invite you to begin your application process today.

Learn More
First-Generation College Students

If neither of your parents has completed a four-year degree, then 91�� considers you a first-generation college student. Even if that isn’t exactly your situation, all of the resources described in this section are available to you.

Find Support
QuestBridge

We’re proud to partner with QuestBridge, a national nonprofit organization that connects high-achieving, underserved high school students with educational opportunities at some of the best colleges and universities in the United States. Every year, QuestBridge provides these opportunities to low-income high school students across the country through its College Prep Scholarship and National College Match programs. We're also honored to participate in Questbridge's national college admissions conferences every year.

Explore Further
Interviews

An interview isn’t required for admission (and you may only interview once), but it’s a great chance for our staff to get to know you more and find out if 91�� is a good fit for you. We offer interviews on campus, off campus, and online.

Schedule an Interview
Recommendations and Portfolios

What do others have to say about your work ethic and leadership qualities? We'll find out in the letters of recommendation that are required with your application. Additionally, auditions and portfolio reviews are not requirements for admission, but students interested in the arts are welcome to submit their work for us to review.

Tell Us Your Story

Transfer Applicants

We’re here to work with you and make sure you have the resources and guidance to complete the application process.

Transfer to 91��

DMACC Preview Program

We’ve partnered with Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in an agreement to encourage qualified DMACC students to consider transferring to 91��.

Look Ahead

Advanced Scholars Program

This program gives outstanding high school students the opportunity to take classes at 91��.

Get an early start

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Apply to 91��

You’re ready to take the next step in becoming a 91��ian.