BYU-Idaho Information

Thank you for your interest in BYU-Idaho! This article contains information on the history of the university, as well as general information for anyone interested in visiting or attending school here. 

When was BYU-Idaho established? 

• The school was established in 1888 under the name Bannock Stake Academy. At this point, it only offered elementary level courses. In 1903, the school’s name was changed to Ricks Academy and offered elementary through high school levels of education. In 1923, the name was changed to Ricks College. In 2001, Ricks College officially became BYU-Idaho. 

Who started BYU-Idaho?  

• The pioneers who helped settle Rexburg, Idaho established Bannock Stake Academy. Jacob Spori was the school’s first principal. Thomas E. Ricks was the president at the time of the transition to Ricks Academy. Finally, under the guidance of President Gordon B. Hinkley, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and David A. Bednar, president of Ricks College, the school became BYU-Idaho in 2001. 

What does the BYU in BYU-Idaho stand for? 

• BYU stands for "Brigham Young University". 

Is BYU-Idaho an extension campus for BYU in Provo? What is the difference between BYU and BYU-Idaho? 

• No, BYU-Idaho is not an extension of BYU. While both are owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they have always been separate institutions. One key difference between the two universities is that BYU-Idaho is teaching-oriented while BYU is a research-based institution. This reflects in BYU-Idaho’s smaller class size and fewer on-campus students.  

Where is BYU-Idaho located? 

• BYU-Idaho is in Rexburg, Idaho. The BYU-Idaho Campus Maps webpage has driving directions to campus. 

What is the mission of BYU-Idaho? 

• Please refer to the BYU-Idaho Mission Statement page. 

Who is the current president of BYU-Idaho? 

• Alvin F. Meredith III is the current president of BYU-Idaho. For more information on the current and past presidents, see Office of the President.

How many presidents has BYU-Idaho had? 

• President Meredith is the 18th president of BYU-Idaho. Please refer to Past Presidents for a list of all the past presidents. 

Which building is the main student center for BYU-Idaho? 

• The main student center is the Hyrum Manwaring Center, which many students call the MC. 

How do I find a map of campus?  

• You can use this interactive map of BYU-Idaho's campus. 

What is the mailing address for BYU-Idaho? 

• 525 S Center St. Rexburg, ID 83460 

Can anyone attend BYU-Idaho, and how can I apply? 

• Anyone can apply to BYU-Idaho. For instructions on how to do so, please see Applying to BYU-Idaho. 

What is the BYU-Idaho FAFSA code?

• The BYU-Idaho FAFSA code is 001625.

What are the BYU-I school codes for ACT/SAT?

• The code for ACT is 0926
• The code for SAT is 4657