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Saint Ambrose University

Davenport, IA

Overview

Catholic university blending faith, service, and hands-on professional training in Iowa's Quad Cities.

Identity
Academics
Culture
Outcomes
Identity

Saint Ambrose University, founded in 1918 by the Diocese of Davenport as a men's liberal arts college, became coeducational in 1967 and gained university status in 1987. Rooted in the Catholic and Dominican traditions, it prioritizes intellectual inquiry, ethical formation, and community service. The campus sits along the Mississippi River in Davenport, Iowa, fostering a tight-knit environment amid the Quad Cities metropolitan area.

Ambrose attracts earnest students who value personal growth alongside faith integration. Those who thrive here are collaborative, service-minded individuals seeking mentorship in a smaller setting—about 2,800 total students—with Midwest roots or openness to regional life. The university suits pragmatic learners balancing spiritual reflection with career preparation.

1,939
Undergrads
559
Grad Students
77.3%
Acceptance
70.0%
Grad Rate
Photos
Our office are closed Nov. 25-Nov. 29 in observance of the Thanksgiving  holiday. We wish everyone a safe and joyful time celebrating with family,  friends, and loved ones 🍁
main administration building
iconic campus entrance gate or sign
historic or signature academic building
central quad or green space
St. Ambrose University seeking city approval to expand McMullen Hall
St. Ambrose University seeking city approval to expand McMullen Hall
What's going up? Business addition aims to keep St. Ambrose ...
St. Ambrose University - Wellness Center - Tri-City Electric
St. Ambrose University - Wellness Center - Tri-City Electric
St. Ambrose University - Rogalski Center - Russell Group ...
St. Ambrose University | LinkedIn
St. Ambrose University
Academics
11.0 : 1
Student-Faculty Ratio
76.0%
Retention Rate (Full-Time)
70.0%
6-Year Graduation Rate
62.0%
4-Year Graduation Rate
1,939
Undergraduate Enrollment
559
Graduate Enrollment
Admissions
77.3%
Acceptance Rate
3.70
Average GPA
Test Optional
Test Policy
$0
Application Fee
Test Score Range
SAT Math

440590

SAT Reading

490580

ACT Composite

2025

Check Your Fit

Enter your scores to see how you compare to admitted students at Saint Ambrose University.

School avg: 3.70

0.00 – 4.00 scale

School range: 930–1170

400 – 1600 (total)

School range: 20–25

1 – 36 (composite)

Enter at least one score above to see your fit

Tip: Add all three scores for the most accurate estimate

This tool provides estimates based on academic metrics only. Actual admission decisions consider many factors including essays, extracurriculars, recommendations, and more.
Financial Aid & Costs
Estimated Annual Cost

$48,988

Tuition + Room & Board + Books (before financial aid)
Cost Breakdown

Tuition

$34,290

Room & Board

$13,378

Books & Supplies

$1,320

Financial Aid
100%
Receiving Aid
35%
Pell Grant Recipients
$25,877
Avg Grant (recipients)
$9,716
Avg Federal Loan
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Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Campus Life
Housing

On-Campus Housing

Yes

Housing Capacity

1,601 beds

Housing Guarantee

Data not available

Dining

Meal Plan Available

Yes

Meal Plan Type

Data not available

Athletics
NCAA
Quick Facts

Type

Private

Undergraduate Enrollment

1,939

Acceptance Rate

77%

Graduation Rate

70%

Tuition & Room/Board

$47,668

Affiliation

Roman Catholic

Visit Website

sau.edu

Davenport, IA 52803-2898

City: Midsize
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