Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is one of the nation’s leading Christian liberal arts universities, combining academic excellence with strong moral and spiritual foundations. Established in 1920, IWU has evolved into a modern institution offering on-campus, online, and hybrid programs for students across the United States and around the world.
From undergraduate and graduate degrees to professional and nursing programs, IWU is committed to developing students who excel academically, professionally, and spiritually. This guide covers everything prospective students should know — admissions, GPA requirements, tuition, rankings, and campus life.
About Indiana Wesleyan University
Founded: 1920IWU serves more than 10,000 students annually, including those studying online and at regional education centers across Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio.
Accreditation and Academic Recognition
Indiana Wesleyan University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring the quality and transferability of its academic programs.
Additionally, several of IWU’s programs hold specialized accreditations, such as:
Nursing (BSN, MSN): Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)This ensures IWU degrees meet national academic and professional standards.
GPA Requirements and Acceptance Rate
Indiana Wesleyan University maintains a welcoming admissions policy while valuing academic readiness.
Average GPA Requirement:
- For most undergraduate programs: 3.0 (B average) or higher
- For Nursing, Education, and competitive majors: 3.3+ GPA preferred
Acceptance Rate:
IWU’s acceptance rate is approximately 76%, making it moderately selective — ideal for students seeking academic rigor with accessible entry.
Admissions decisions consider not only GPA and test scores but also character, community involvement, and leadership.
Admissions Process
Applying to Indiana Wesleyan University is straightforward and can be completed online.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
1. Select a Program: Choose from undergraduate, graduate, or online programs.7. Enrollment Dates: IWU operates on multiple start dates per year, especially for online and adult learning programs.
Popular Campuses and Centers
While the main residential campus is in Marion, Indiana, IWU has multiple education centers across the Midwest for regional and online learners.
a. IWU Merrillville Campus
- Address: 8415 Georgia St, Merrillville, IN 46410
- Focus Areas: Business, Education, Nursing, Counseling
- Facilities: Modern classrooms, library, tech labs, and career center
- Serves adult and online learners in northwest Indiana
b. IWU Fort Wayne Campus
- Offers Nursing, Business, and Graduate Education programs
- Strong connections with local healthcare systems and employers
c. IWU Louisville, KY Campus
- Designed for working professionals in Kentucky
- Offers evening and hybrid degree programs
d. IWU Columbus, OH Center
- Popular among online students needing local support and resources
- Offers business, IT, and education-focused programs
e. IWU Greenwood Education Center
- Serves the Indianapolis area
- Offers RN-to-BSN, MBA, and hybrid business programs
Academic Programs
Indiana Wesleyan University offers over 80 undergraduate majors and 90+ graduate and professional programs across disciplines.
Undergraduate Majors
- Accounting, Finance, and Business Management
- Nursing (Pre-Licensure BSN, RN-to-BSN)
- Psychology and Counseling
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary and Secondary Education
- Computer Science and Cybersecurity
- Theology and Ministry
Graduate Programs
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- MA in Organizational Leadership
Doctoral Programs
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Hybrid & Online Learning
IWU offers hybrid programs, allowing students to combine in-person classes with online coursework, making education more flexible for working adults.
RN-to-BSN Program
One of IWU’s most respected offerings is the RN-to-BSN program, designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their qualifications.
Program Features:
- Fully online or hybrid format
- Completion time: 12–18 months
- Focus: Leadership, evidence-based practice, patient-centered care
- Accreditation: CCNE-approved
Admission Requirements:
- Active RN license
- Associate Degree or Nursing Diploma
- Minimum GPA of 2.75
Career Outcomes:
Graduates can pursue roles as Nurse Managers, Clinical Coordinators, or Nursing Educators — or continue toward an MSN or DNP.
Tuition and Fees
Indiana Wesleyan University offers competitive tuition rates compared to other private institutions.
Approximate Annual Costs (2025):
- Undergraduate (Residential): $30,000–$32,000 per year
- Online Undergraduate: $400–$450 per credit hour
- Graduate Programs: $500–$650 per credit hour
- RN-to-BSN: $430 per credit hour
Additional Costs:
- Room & Board: $10,000–$11,000 (for residential students)
- Books & Materials: ~$1,200 annually
Financial Aid:
Over 90% of IWU students receive financial assistance through:
- FAFSA grants and federal aid
- Indiana state scholarships
- Church and ministry-based grants
- IWU Merit Scholarships and Leadership Awards
Acceptance and Enrollment Statistics
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Freshman Retention Rate: 81%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Average Class Size: 20–25 students
- Total Enrollment: ~10,000+ students (including online)
These numbers highlight IWU’s dedication to academic excellence with individualized attention.
Campus Visits and Student Life
Visiting IWU:
Prospective students can schedule in-person or virtual tours via the IWU Visit Page. Campus tours include residence halls, labs, athletic facilities, and the Student Life Center.
Campus Life:
The Marion campus is vibrant with:
- Student ministries and worship events
- Sports and intramural activities
- Leadership development workshops
- Cultural and social organizations
Rankings and Reputation
Indiana Wesleyan University consistently earns recognition for its academic excellence and values-based education.
Recent Rankings:
- #6 in Best Value Colleges in Indiana (2024) – Niche
- Top 10 Midwest Regional Universities – U.S. News & World Report
- #2 in Best Online Christian Colleges in the U.S. – OnlineU
Its graduates are well-regarded for leadership, integrity, and service-oriented careers.
Is Indiana Wesleyan University D1?
IWU is a member of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), not NCAA Division I.
Its teams, the Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats, compete in the Crossroads League and Mid-States Football Association, excelling in basketball, soccer, track, and volleyball.
Despite not being Division I, IWU has one of the most successful athletic programs among private Christian universities.
Hybrid and Online Programs
Indiana Wesleyan’s hybrid model allows students to attend part-time, full-time, or online courses according to their schedule.
Benefits of Hybrid Learning:
- Flexibility for working professionals
- Weekly live sessions + self-paced modules
- Access to digital libraries and academic advisors
Programs like MBA, RN-to-BSN, and M.Ed. are especially popular in hybrid formats.
Why Choose Indiana Wesleyan University?
- Regionally accredited, faith-centered education
- Affordable tuition and strong financial aid options
- Multiple campus centers across Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio
- Recognized for leadership and community service
- Supportive faculty-to-student ratio (14:1)
- Flexible online and hybrid learning options
IWU emphasizes not only academic achievement but also spiritual growth and personal purpose.
Your Next Steps
If you’re considering a university that blends faith, flexibility, and academic rigor, Indiana Wesleyan University is an excellent choice.
Next Steps:
- Visit www.indwes.edu
- Choose your program of interest.
- Apply online and submit transcripts.
- Complete FAFSA for financial aid.
- Schedule a campus or virtual visit.
FAQs About Indiana Wesleyan University
Q1. Is Indiana Wesleyan University accredited?
Yes, IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and other specialized agencies.
Q2. What is the GPA requirement for admission?
Typically a GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended.
Q3. What is IWU’s acceptance rate?
Approximately 76%, making it moderately selective.
Q4. Where is the Merrillville campus located?
8415 Georgia St, Merrillville, IN 46410.
Q5. Is IWU a Division 1 school?
No, it competes in the NAIA, known for strong athletic performance.
Q6. How much is tuition at IWU?
Undergraduate programs average $30,000 annually, while online credits cost about $400–$450 each.
Q7. What is the RN-to-BSN program?
A flexible, CCNE-accredited online nursing completion program for registered nurses.
Q8. Does IWU offer hybrid or online programs?
Yes, IWU offers both hybrid and fully online degrees for working professionals.
