Idaho, the Gem State, is home to many renowned higher education institutions offering diverse programs and opportunities for students. The state’s universities and colleges cater to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations. Let’s take a deeper dive into the best colleges in Idaho.
University of Idaho
The University of Idaho (UI) is the state’s land-grant and primary research university. It offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are approximately $8,304 and $27,540 for out-of-state students. The undergraduate enrollment is about 7,700 students. The middle 50% SAT range is 1050-1240.
Majors: The most popular majors include Business, Engineering, and Agriculture.
Boise State University
Boise State University (BSU), located in the state’s capital city, is known for its business, education, engineering, nursing, and public affairs programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are about $7,694 and $23,776 for out-of-state students. BSU enrolls over 22,000 undergraduate students. The middle 50% SAT range is 990-1200.
Majors: The most popular majors include Business, Nursing, and Psychology.
College of Idaho
The College of Idaho (C of I) is a private liberal arts college offering a distinctive PEAK curriculum that prepares students for professional success and lifelong learning.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: The annual tuition and fees are approximately $31,170. C of I has an undergraduate enrollment of around 1,150 students. The middle 50% SAT range is 1040-1270.
Majors: Biology, Business, and Health Sciences are the most popular majors.
College of Southern Idaho
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) is a comprehensive community college providing associate degrees and certificate programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are about $4,560, and $6,720 for out-of-state students. The enrollment is about 6,300 students. SAT scores are not typically required for admission.
Majors: The most popular majors include Liberal Arts, Nursing, and Business.
Northwest Nazarene University
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is a private Christian liberal arts university offering over 60 areas of study.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: The annual tuition and fees are about $30,150. NNU enrolls about 2,000 undergraduate students. The middle 50% SAT range is 1040-1250.
Majors: The most popular majors include Nursing, Business, and Engineering.
Idaho State University
Idaho State University (ISU) offers various degree options and is well-known for its health sciences programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are about $7,420, and $22,940 for out-of-state students. The undergraduate enrollment is around 10,500 students. The middle 50% SAT range is 970-1190.
Majors: The most popular majors include Nursing, Health Professions, and Business.
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho) is a private institution affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It offers a variety of bachelor’s and associate’s degrees.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: The annual tuition and fees are approximately $4,208. BYU-Idaho enrolls over 34,000 undergraduate students. The middle 50% SAT range is 1060-1230.
Majors: Business, Education, and Health Sciences are the most popular majors.
College of Eastern Idaho
The College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) is a community college offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are about $2,760, and $4,152 for out-of-state students. The enrollment is about 3,000 students. SAT scores are not typically required for admission.
Majors: The most popular majors include Health Professions, Business, and Technology Programs.
Boise Bible College
Boise Bible College (BBC) is a private college that prepares leaders for Christian life and service.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: The annual tuition and fees are about $11,460. BBC has a small enrollment of around 150 students. The SAT range is not typically disclosed as it is not a primary factor in admissions.
Majors: The most popular majors include Biblical Studies, Christian Ministry, and Christian Leadership.
North Idaho College
North Idaho College (NIC), a community college, offers various associate degrees and technical programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range: Tuition and fees for in-state students are about $4,876, and $8,546 for out-of-state students. NIC enrolls about 5,000 students. SAT scores are not typically required for admission.
Majors: The most popular majors include Liberal Arts, Health Professions, and Business.
5 Tips to Improve Your SAT Score
Improving your SAT score can significantly enhance your college application and open up more college admission and scholarships opportunities. Here are five effective strategies:
1. Understand the Test Format: The SAT is divided into sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (no calculator and with calculator), and an optional Essay. Knowing the test’s structure can help you manage your time effectively during the exam.
2. Practice Regularly: Regular practice can significantly boost your SAT score. Use official SAT practice tests to get a sense of the types of questions you will face.
3. Review Your Mistakes: It’s crucial to review your mistakes and understand why you got a question wrong. This will help you avoid similar errors in the future.
4. Brush up on Basic Skills: The SAT tests various basic skills, especially in math. Ensure you’re proficient in algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
5. Read Widely: For the Reading and Writing sections, practice reading a variety of texts, including literature, historical documents, and scientific articles. This will help you understand complex texts and improve your vocabulary.
By carefully selecting the best-fit institution and preparing thoroughly for the SAT, students can look forward to a successful and rewarding college experience in Idaho.
