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University of Iowa: Rankings, Acceptance Rate, Cost & Admissions 2024
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Last updated on 18 Nov '24, by Anushree Sinha (Study Abroad Expert)UIWhat’s new?
For the Spring semester, the international students' application deadline is Nov 15, 2025, for many courses.
- About the University of Iowa
- UI Programs
- UI Scholarships 2024
- UI Admission Dates 2024
- UI Fees, Duration & Entry Requirements 2024
- UI Placements 2024
- UI Shiksha Evaluation University Ranking 2024
- UI College comparison
- Studying in USA
- UI Notable Alumni
- UI FAQs
About the University of Iowa
Established in 1847, the University of Iowa is a publically-owned research university in Iowa. It is one of the top universities in US with the rank #93 in Best National Universities in US News & World Report Rankings 2024. A total of 31,452 students study at UI, out of which 1,735 (5.5%) students are international. In the fall 2023 semester, 43 Indian Americans were admitted at Iowa. Iowa is known for excellence in both the arts and sciences, offering world-class undergraduate, graduate, and professional academic programs in a wide variety of fields.
Others
83%
Hispanic
8%
Asian
4%
Black
3%
In state
53%
Out of state
45%
Foreign
1%
24 and under
94%
25 and over
5%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Does the University of Iowa require IELTS?
International students whose first language is not English must provide English language proficiency proof to get admission to the university. The university the IELTS score as a proof of English language proficiency. The below table includes the minimum score required for undergraduate and graduate admission:
English Language Test | UG Admission Requirements | PG Admission Requirements |
|---|---|---|
6.5 (no part score under 6.0) | Overall score of 7 with no subscore less than 6 |
Q: Is GRE required for the University of Iowa?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is required for graduate admission at the University of Iowa for international students. For some programs, the GRE test score is not required for admission nor at any point during the program, but can strengthen your application for admission and scholarship eligibility.
Also check the GRE Cutoff Scores for Universities in the USA
Q: How do I apply to the University of Iowa?
International students can easily apply for the University of Iowa admissions by following the below points:
· Submit your application – students can submit the online admission application through Common Application
· Pay application fee – pay the University of Iowa application fee (non-refundable)
· Provide academic records – submit your official academic transcripts
· Meet the English proficiency requirements – submit the English language proficiency test score of any IELTS/TOEFL/PTE
· Additional test score – Provide ACT/SAT score for undergraduate and GMAT/GRE for graduate admission (optional)
Also read: When to Start Your Application Process to US Universities
Q: Is the University of Iowa better than Iowa State University?
The University of Iowa as well as Iowa State University are two well-known institutions in US and good abroad options for students. When it comes to rankings, the University of Iowa beats Iowa State University with the rank #93 in Best National Universities in US News & World Report Rankings 2023. The latter has been ranked #115 in the same category. However, when it comes to QS World University of Rankings, Iowa State University has an upper hand with the rank #500. Whereas, the University of Iowa has claimed the rank #491.
Mentioned below is the comparison between both the universities on the basis of some other parameters that can help you choose the better university for you:
Parameters | University of Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
Acceptance Rate | 86% | 91.1% |
Average GPA | 3.76 | 3.0 |
Annual Tuition Fee (B.Tech) | INR 25 L - 25.8 L | INR 21.5 L - 26.2 L |
Q: Is it hard to get into the University of Iowa?
With an acceptance rate of 86%, the University of Iowa is a lightly selective institution as it accepts approximately 86 out of every 100 applicants on an average. Once a candidate fulfills all the admission requirements, inclusive of academic as well as document requirements, they are most likely to get accepted in UI. However, students must not take this lightly. Candidates must be aware of the application deadlines and apply to the university correctly, along with submitting all the relevant requirements.
Note: The acceptance rate is derived from the US News & World Report's official website and is likely to change every year.
UI Programs
University of Iowa offers over 200 majors, minors and certificate courses along with 100+ postgraduate courses through its 12 colleges, across 11 areas of study - Business, Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Education, Law, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health.
Guided 4.7K students to USA universities.
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Guided 4.7K students to USA universities.
Guided 4.7K students to USA universities.
12.3K+ students got admitted through us.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: What is the most preferred course by indian students at University of Iowa?
Some of the most preferred courses by indian students at the University of Iowa include Master in Business Analytics (STEM), MS in Orthodontics, Online Master of Science STEM Education, Online MBA Programs, MS in Pharmacy, Online Executive Master of Healthcare Administration, Online MSN in Nursing Systems Administration (MSN-NSA), Online Master of Arts in Teaching, Leadership, and Cultural Competency, Online Certificate in Entrepreneurial Management, among others.
Q: What are the University of Iowa popular majors?
University of Iowa offers over 200 majors, minors and certificate courses along with 100+ postgraduate courses through its 12 colleges, across 11 areas of study - Business, Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Education, Law, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health. According to the US News & World Report, the most popular majors at UI include:
- Business, Management & Marketing;
- Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, & Kinesiology;
- Health Professions;
- Social Sciences;
- Engineering;
- Communication & Journalism;
- Visual & Performing Arts;
- Biological & Biomedical Sciences; and
- Education.
Q: Which major is the University of Iowa known for?
The University of Iowa is a top-ranking US university and is home to one of the most acclaimed academic medical centers in the country as well as globally recognised leadership in the study and craft of writing. Iowa is known for excellence in both the arts and sciences, offering world-class undergraduate, graduate and professional academic programs in a wide variety of fields. At Iowa, students can pursue a course in the field of medicine in a variety of specializations such as Community Health, Clinical Skills, Disruptive Forces, Biomedical Education, Global Health Issues, Mechanisms of Health & Disease, Medicine & Science and many more.
Key Facts:
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, one of America’s best hospitals, provides comprehensive, hands-on experience for students;
- 82% of Iowa’s nurses are Hawkeyes, having trained at one of the country’s best nursing programs;
- Iowa’s Doctor of Pharmacy program is ranked among the top 20 in the U.S; and
- The Iowa Neuroscience Institute brings together more than 100 faculty members from 26 departments to study neurological disorders.
Q: What are people's opinions on University of Iowa for MBA?
The MBA programme at the University of Iowa has received positive feedback from students. According to a Reddit post, the professors have been effective in leveraging recorded lectures and conducting live sessions for discussions, indicating a positive learning experience. The programme has been ranked among the top 15 in the country by The Princeton Review and number 8 out of 100 programs by Fortune magazine, highlighting its quality and reputation Additionally, a Reddit comment mentions that the programme is good for securing $100-150k jobs and for those seeking a promotion, and it is considered a solid school with a good return on investment.
UI Scholarships 2024
The University of Iowa attracts the brightest students from across the world and considers them for a limited number of merit scholarships. However, fiinancial assistance in the form of grants, loans, or need-based aid is not available for international students. Two of the most popular scholarships for international students at UI are:
- International Distinction in Education Award (IDEA)
- Collegiate and Departmental Scholarships
this University
6 exclusive scholarships available2.8 Cr worth total scholarship amountWe have helped students get 30Cr+ in scholarships
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: Does the University of Iowa offer scholarships to international students?
Yes, the University of Iowa considers bright international students for a limited number of merit scholarships. However, fiinancial assistance in the form of grants, loans or need-based aid is not available for international students. The most popular scholarsip at UI is namely International Distinction in Education Award (IDEA).
- Value: $500 - $15,000 per year.
- Minimum Requirements: International students entering the fall (August) 2024 term will be considered for merit scholarships. Scholarship selection is competitive, and is based on holistic review of all application information, high school marks/grades and SAT or ACT scores.
- Application: Not required. Scholarship is awarded automatically to eligible students upon admission.
- Renewal: Available for up to eight semesters or until the students receives their bachelor’s degree. Students must maintain continuous full-time enrollment (12 semester hours) at the University of Iowa (fall and spring terms), a minimum 2.50 cumulative UI GPA, continue to pay nonresident tuition and remain in international student status for renewal. Renewal reviews are done at the end of each semester.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for scholarships at UI?
The University of Iowa considers bright international students for a limited number of merit scholarships. However, fiinancial assistance in the form of grants, loans or need-based aid is not available for international students. The most popular scholarsip at UI is namely International Distinction in Education Award (IDEA), which awards students a disbursement of $500 - $15,000 per year.
Eligibility criteria: Scholarship selection is competitive, and is based on holistic review of all application information, high school marks/grades and SAT or ACT scores. Also, the scholarship is available for up to eight semesters or until the students receives their bachelor’s degree. Students must maintain continuous full-time enrollment (12 semester hours) at the University of Iowa (fall and spring terms), a minimum 2.50 cumulative UI GPA, continue to pay nonresident tuition and remain in international student status for renewal. Renewal reviews are done at the end of each semester.
Q: Can I work while studying in the University of Iowa?
Yes, the University of Iowa allows students to work on campus while studying in the university. Students who wish to work can find job opportunities on the university campus and in the local Iowa City/Coralville community. Most jobs are part-time hourly positions paid by employers, but some are supported by the federal Work-Study program. At UI, employment provides students with career-enhancing opportunities, the ability to develop skills relevant to any majors and the necessary preparation and assistance for competitive job markets.
Q: Are there any scholarships for international students at University of Iowa?
Q: What are the top Scholarships for Indian Students at University of Iowa and how to avail them?
Some of the scholarships for Indian Students include the Snodgrass Scholarship, Drs. Michael L. and Darlene M. McNulty Scholarship, International Student Study Abroad Scholarship, and others, are designed for undergraduate students in specific programs or those planning to study abroad. The scholarships aim to help cover the estimated international costs for full-time study at the University of Iowa. The scholarships are competitive and are based on a holistic review of the application information, high school marks/grades, and ACT or SAT scores.
UI Admission Dates 2024
The University of Iowa's application deadlines for international students for the 2025 intake are listed below:
| Session | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Fall or Summer | May 01, 2025 |
| Spring | Nov 15, 2025 |
- Application fees :USD 100
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Needed for few courses |
| LOR | Needed for few courses |
| Essays | Not required |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Important dates| Intake season | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | 15ᵗʰ Mar - 1ˢᵗ May 2024 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: Which documents do I need while applying to the University of Iowa?
While applying to the University of Iowa, all international must submit a set of required documents mentioned below in order to get enrolled in the university as a student:
- Completed application along with $55 application fee;
- English proficiency exam scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo);
- Academic transcripts;
- SAT/ACT scores;
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Portfolios;
- Personal essays or SOP;
- Proof of financial support, certification of finances, and bank statements;
- Copy of Passport;
- CV/Resume; and
- GMAT or GRE scores.
Q: What is the University of Iowa's acceptance rate?
According to the US News & World Report, about 86 out of every 100 applicants get selected at the University of Iowa. This makes UI a comparitively easier university to get into with an acceptance rate of 86%. However, students must not take it lightly and fulfill all the admission requirements; standardized test scores, English language requirements & relevant documents.
Note: The data is taken from unofficial sources and is subjected to change every year.
Q: What are University of Iowa's application deadlines 2024?
All the international students aiming to pursue their higher studies from the University of Iowa can apply to the university in two ways: the University of Iowa Application or the Common Application (fall session only) through UI's official website. The University of Iowa's application deadlines for the 2024 intake are listed below:
| Particulars | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Early Action (Fall Semester) | November 1, 2024 |
| Fall Semester Acceptance Deadline | May 1, 2024 |
All students must pay a non-refundable application fee of $55 while applying to Iowa.
Q: Where can international students apply for admission to University of Iowa?
Q: Are there many students from other countries studying at University of Iowa?
Yes, there are many students from other countries studying at the University of Iowa. According to the International Student and Scholar Statistics for Fall 2022, there are 2,063 enrolled international students from 117 countries. International students make up about 5.9% of the student body. The university also offers study abroad programs and support for international students and scholars. The University of Iowa accepts applications year-round from international students.
UI Fees, Duration & Entry Requirements 2024
In order to be eligible for pursuing higher studies at the University of Iowa, international students must fulfill certain entry requirements. These requirements consist of minimum GPA requirements, academic requirements, English language proficiency score (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo), standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and relevant documents.
Students can refer to the table below for University of Iowa's fees requirements:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MDS(1 course) | INR 26 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 81 & Above, PTE: 68 & Above |
B.E. / B.Tech(3 courses) | INR 26 L - 27 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
BBA(1 course) | INR 27 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 48 L | Duration: 18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 100 & Above |
MS(1 course) | INR 24 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: GRE, IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 81 & Above |
MIM(1 course) | INR 48 L | Duration: 18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 100 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: Is it expensive to study in the University of Iowa?
The University of Iowa offers over 200 majors, minors and certificate courses along with 100+ postgraduate courses through its 12 colleges, across 11 areas of study - Business, Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Education, Law, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health. The annual tuition fees required to pursue a degree course at UI is above 25L on an average, which can be considered expensive. Students can refer to the table listed below for course specific fees requirements:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (1 course) | INR 37.4 L |
B.E. / B.Tech (3 courses) | INR 25 L - 25.8 L |
MIM (1 course) | INR 30.8 L |
BBA (1 course) | INR 26.3 L |
MDS (1 course) | INR 9.4 L |
Q: Can I study in the University of Iowa without IELTS?
No, Indian students cannot pursue their studies in the University of Iowa without any English proficiency exam score. All the international candidates must fulfill the minimum score requirements listed below as a UI entry requirement:
English Language Exam | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 81 |
7.0 (no band below 6.0) | |
68 (no sub-score less than 58) | |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 110 & Above |
Note:
- The on-campus English Proficiency Exam (EPE) will be required unless the candidate submits a TOEFL overall score of 100 or higher, or an IELTS overall score of 8.0 or higher.;
- All students admitted using DuoLingo (DET) test scores will be required to take the EPE when they arrive on campus; and
- UI's English language requirements various according to program. Hence, students must go through the university's website for specific requirements.
Q: What are the University of Iowa's admission requirements for international students?
In order to be eligible for pursuing higher studies at the University of Iowa, international first-year students must fulfill certain entry requirements. These requirements include:
- A 3.0 GPA on academic courses;
- Three years of completed secondary (high school) coursework;
- Completion of secondary school (generally representing 12-13 years of education);
- Academic records (transcripts) that reflect a graduation date or a separate secondary school diploma/certificate;
- English proficiency exam scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo); and
- Minimum high school requirements:
| Subject Area | For applying to the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences | For applying to the college of engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 3 Years (2 years of algebra, 1 year of geometry) | 4 years (2 years of algebra, 1 year of geometry, 1 year of higher math [i.e. trigonometry, calculus, etc.]) |
| Science | 3 years (including biology, chemistry, and physics) | 3 years (including at least 1 year of chemistry and 1 year of physics) |
| Social Studies | 3 years | 2 years |
| Native Language | 4 years | 4 years |
| Single World Language | 2 years | 2 years |
Q: Does the University of Iowa require SAT/ACT scores?
At the University of Iowa, SAT or ACT scores are not required from international applicants who completed secondary school outside the United States. However, SAT or ACT scores are required from first-year applicants who wish to be considered for academic scholarships, Direct Admission to the Tippie College of Business or for the University of Iowa Honors Program. Also, SAT and ACT scores can be used to satisfy Iowa’s English proficiency requirements.
Q: How expensive is it to live at University of Iowa?
For the 2023-2024 academic year at the University of Iowa, the room and meal plan rates range from $5,655 to $11,598 per year for different residence hall room types. The on-campus housing and dining expenses at the University of Iowa add up to $16,416, which is close to the national average of $15,282. In addition to housing and food, the estimated total billed expenses for Iowa residents living on campus for the 2023-2024 academic year are $23,580, which includes tuition and fees.
UI Placements 2024
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: What are the job opportunities after doing an MA from University of Iowa?
The University of Iowa offers a variety of job opportunities for graduates with an MA degree. The university's job portal lists diverse job openings for people from all backgrounds. Graduates with an MA in English can go into a wide assortment of careers such as sales, public relations, social media management, editing/publishing, advertising, or politics. Graduates with an MA in Health Studies are prepared to work with individuals, groups, and families in service-oriented positions across a wide variety of public and private health, including hospital-based and corporate-based non-profit health agencies, etc.
UIRankings & Grading
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: What is the rank of University of Iowa in the world?
The University of Iowa is ranked #93 out of 439 National Universities in the US News Best Colleges 2024 edition. It is also ranked #491 in QS World University Rankings 2024. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, it is ranked 201-250. The university is also home to many well-ranked graduate programs, including degrees offered through its College of Law, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, Henry B. Tippie College of Business, and Colleges of Education, Engineering, Law, Nursing, and Pharmacy. It is also known for its Iowa Writer's Workshop, which has produced 13 Pulitzer Prize winners.
UICollege comparison
Compare UI with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
UI | INR 25.89 L | A | #596 QS, 2025 |
OHSU  Compare | INR 47.27 L | B++ | #148 US News, 2024 |
The Ohio State University Compare | INR 36.45 L | A+ | #208 QS, 2025 |
Western University Compare | INR 34.58 L | A | #120 QS, 2025 |
Boston University Compare | INR 73.74 L - 80.96 L | A+ | #108 QS, 2025 |
University of Michigan Compare | INR 28.08 L - 67.91 L | A++ | #44 QS, 2025 |
UIStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
UI Notable Alumni
The University of Iowa maintains a global alumni network of over 250,000 graduates. James Van Allen, the world-famous physicist who invented the two radiation belts that circle the earth, is a notable alumnus of the University of Iowa. Other names in the list of distinguished alumni are B. J. Armstrong (Former Footballer), Mildred Wirt Benson (Nancy Drew Collection's Author), Terry Branstad (American Politician), John W. Irving (Novelist), Al Jarreau (Jazz Performer), Ashton Kutcher (Actor), Max A. Collins (Author), Flannery O'Connor (Novelist), Gene Wilder (Actor), Juanita Kidd Stout (Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice) and Richard W. Maibaum (Producer and Screenwriter).
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Q: Who are the University of Iowa notable alumni?
The University of Iowa maintains a global alumni network of over 250,000 graduates. James Van Allen, the world-famous physicist who invented the two radiation belts that circle the earth, is a notable alumnus of the University of Iowa. Other names in the list of distinguished alumni are B. J. Armstrong (Former Footballer), Mildred Wirt Benson (Nancy Drew Collection's Author), Terry Branstad (American Politician), John W. Irving (Novelist), Al Jarreau (Jazz Performer), Ashton Kutcher (Actor), Max A. Collins (Author), Flannery O'Connor (Novelist), Gene Wilder (Actor), Juanita Kidd Stout (Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice) and Richard W. Maibaum (Producer and Screenwriter).
UI FAQs
Q: How many international students study at the University of Iowa?
In the fall 2023 intake, a total of 31,452 students were enrolled in the University of Iowa, out of which 1,735 students were international.
| Race/Ethnicity | Enrollment Count | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| African American or Black | 933 | 3.0% |
| Alaskan Native or American Indian | 43 | 0.1% |
| Asian American | 1,576 | 5.0% |
| Hispanic or Latinx | 2,481 | 7.9% |
| Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander | 20 | 0.1% |
| Two or more races | 1,049 | 3.3% |
| White (Non-Hispanic) or Unknown Race | 23,480 | 74.9% |
| International | 1,735 | 5.5% |
Q: What is the University of Iowa's ranking?
The University of Iowa is one the top 100 institutions in US with the rank:
- #491 in World University Rankings 2024 - QS World University Rankings
- #93 in Best National Universities 2024 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #47 in Top Public Schools 2023 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #110 in Best Value Schools 2023 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #301-350 in World University Rankings 2023 - Times Higher Education (THE)
- #169 in US College Rankings 2022 - Times Higher Education (THE)
Q: How can I apply to the University of Iowa?
All the international students aiming to pursue their higher studies from the University of Iowa can apply to the university in two ways: the University of Iowa Application or the Common Application (fall session only) through UI's official website.
While applying through the University of Iowa Application, the applicants don't necessarily have to complete the online application in one sitting. They may access their application and change their answers as many times as they like by using their email address and password from any computer with Internet access. Students must submit the application electronically once they have answered all required questions. Students must be aware of the proper admission requirements according to their degree and course and choice and submit them while applying. Along with the application, candidates must submit a non-refundable sum of $55 as the application fee. Any application fee can only be paid by Visa, Mastercard, or Discover. Once the applicant logs in, they will be presented with further instructions about navigating the system and filling out the various applications for admission.
UI
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 5 months ago
Campus life at the University of Iowa offers several benefits over staying off-campus:
- Community: Living on campus fosters a strong sense of community and makes it easier to form friendships and engage in university life.
- Convenience: Proximity to classes, libraries, and dining facilities saves time a
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
In order to secure an admission, all overseas applicants must fulfill certain University of Iowa admission requirements? listed below:
Undergraduate Requirements:
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
Usually, the University of Iowa acceptance rate is calculated to be around 86%. In? Fall 2023, UIowa received? over 25,000 applications? from prospective undergraduates and graduates. Out of these, more than? 21,000 candidates secured an admission offer ? from the university. Hence, it can be conclu
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
Yes, the University of Iowa accepts international students every year. As of? Fall 2023? the? total student enrollment? of the university stands at? 31,452. Out of these, the? undergraduate? student count is? 22,130? and the? graduate? student count is? 6,079. The? University of Iowa international s
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
University of Iowa is not the most competitive university to get into, as its acceptance rate stands at 86%. This figure tells us that almost 86 out of every 100 applicants manage to get enrolled in the university, which is more than half of all the applicants. Therefore, once an applicant fulfills
Contributor-Level 10
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| University City | Iowa City, Iowa, USA |
| Size of city | Small |
| Population of City | 75,798 |
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