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Bloomington
Indiana University Bloomington
Information for families

Support your student's journey to IU

As your student begins exploring colleges, we’re here to help you understand the process and feel confident every step of the way. Below is the key information you'll need—from applying and planning a visit to understanding cost, scholarships, and campus life. Use these resources to guide your student, ask the right questions, and stay connected as they take their next big step.

When your student joins the IU Bloomington family, so do you

From New Student Orientation to the annual Family Weekend and Commencement, we want your family to be part of the IU experience. While our website is written primarily for your student, we also have you in mind.

On this page, you will find resources to help you support your student through the admissions process and into their first year. We’ll explain how we prepare our students for a bright future and show you what makes our spirited university so special.

A student and their parents tour a campus dorm.

Precollege programs

If your student wants to explore IU early, precollege programs offer summer experiences, academic camps, dual‑credit courses, and online learning options. These programs help students build confidence and get a feel for college‑level work.

Precollege programs

Navigating the application process

We’ve broken the IU Bloomington application into manageable steps to help your student feel in control. While the application is their own, your support in tracking deadlines and gathering materials is vital to their success.

On our freshman application guide, you will find:

  • Important information to review before they apply: Review details on our test-optional policy (IU is test-optional), admission standards, and how to explore 200+ majors.

  • Steps to take when they apply: Choose whether to apply using the Apply IU Application or Common Application, learn what's needed for the application essay, how to send transcripts and test scores, and more.

  • Information to review and steps to take after they apply: Find instructions for creating an IU computing account, checking application status, and self-reporting scores (if applicable).

Learn about freshman applications

Application deadlines

Help your student stay on track with these important dates:

November 1: early action (non-binding)

Students receive the highest admission and scholarship consideration when they apply by the early action deadline. To meet this deadline, students must submit a complete application, including an official transcript, essay, and test scores (if applicable).

IU response date: On or before January 15.

February 1: regular decision

This is the final priority deadline for admission.

IU response date: On or before March 15.

After February 1: space-available basis

Applications submitted after this date will be considered on a case-by-case basis if space remains in the incoming class.

See all important deadline information

Have questions about admissions or supporting your future Hoosier? Contact the Office of Admissions—we're happy to help.

Cost, scholarships, and financial aid

An IU degree is an investment in your student’s future, and Indiana University Bloomington is committed to helping students access their education and achieve their goals. Explore resources dedicated to helping your student make smart financial decisions and minimize their educational debt.

  • Cost and financial aid

    Access resources to help students and families manage costs, including information on tuition, scholarships, grants, and work opportunities.

  • Scholarships
    The Office of Scholarships can help connect you and your student to additional educational funding opportunities.
  • Apply for financial aid
    Visit Student Central for step-by-step instructions to complete and submit the FAFSA.
  • Financial Aid Brochure

    Download our guide to understanding your financial aid options, deadlines, and the overall investment in an IU degree.

A campus guide wearing a red shirt leads a group of visitors walking along a landscaped outdoor path with greenery and hanging flower baskets.

Visit campus

Seeing IU in person is one of the best ways to understand whether it’s the right fit. Families can join daily tours, attend admissions presentations, or explore campus on their own.

Visit options

Additional IU resources and shortcuts

  • IU Admissions Viewbook

    View our digital guide for a closer look at the IU experience.

  • Academics at IU
    Learn about IU’s schools, majors, academic support, and the opportunities students have to explore interests before choosing a major.
  • Career preparation
    IU students have access to career coaching, internships, mentoring, and hands‑on experiences that help them build a strong path toward life after graduation.
  • Safety and wellbeing
    IU is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment. Families can explore campus safety resources, wellbeing services, and the programs that help students thrive.
  • Housing and dining
    Learn about residence halls, dining options, living‑learning communities, and the support students receive as they transition to living on campus.
  • Future Hoosiers, Family, and Friends Facebook page

    Follow this page for important reminders, deadline updates, and tips for supporting your student.

  • Office of Student Life's Family Resources

    Visit the main hub for news, events, and support for the families of IU students.

  • Official academic calendar

    Stay informed about important dates, including semester starts, holiday breaks, and final exams.

Stay in the loop

Provide some details about you and your student, and we’ll send expert guidance, important reminders, event details, and tailored information.
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IU Bloomington

Office of Admissions

Ernie Pyle Hall 940 E. Seventh Street Bloomington, IN 47405