Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho is the state's flagship higher-education institution and its principal graduate education and research university. The Carnegie Foundation ranks the University of Idaho a "research university with high research activity," the only institution in the state to achieve this elite status. UI's distinctive scholarship expands intellectual boundaries to bring insight and innovation to the state, the nation and the world, attracting more than 12,000 students from all 50 states and more than 90 countries. UI's diverse student population includes first-generation college students, ethnically diverse scholars and high academic performers , including 34 National Merit Scholars and a freshman class with an average high school grade point average of 3.42 in 2005-06. The University of Idaho combines the strengths of a large university, offering 106 degree options in nine colleges, with the intimacy of small learning communities. By attracting more than $100 million in research grants and contracts each year, the University of Idaho is ensuring its cutting-edge academic programs and research benefit the world for years to come.
