In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 25 four-year Iowa colleges is $35,770, reflecting a -1.06% increase compared to the previous year.Among the 25 institutions analyzed, tuition rose at 21 colleges, while tuition decreased at only 2 colleges.
Grinnell College ranks as the most expensive Iowa colleges, with tuition and fees reaching $68,196. Known for its prestigious academic programs and strong reputation, Grinnell College remains a top choice for students seeking a premium education experience.
Close behind are Coe College at$54,666 and Cornell College at$52,660 both consistently recognized among the Iowa Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, offering high-quality academic programs and resources.
At these High-Cost Iowa Colleges, the average acceptance rate is 68.55%, and the average SAT score is 1,215, making them not only cost-effective but also accessible options for a wide range of students.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 - | Grinnell College Grinnell, IAPrivate, 4-year | $68,196 $3,334 | - | 14.51% | 1,788 | 1,490 | 88.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 2 - | Coe College Cedar Rapids, IAPrivate, 4-year | $54,666 $2,090 | - | 64.04% | 1,195 | 1,150 | 66.00% | 11 to 1 |
| 3 1 | Cornell College Mount Vernon, IAPrivate, 4-year | $52,660 $2,026 | $2,800 - | 79.90% | 1,094 | 1,200 | 62.00% | 14 to 1 |
| 4 1 | Luther College Decorah, IAPrivate, 4-year | $52,120 $1,800 | - | 71.54% | 1,384 | 1,215 | 71.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 5 1 | Drake University Des Moines, IAPrivate, 4-year | $51,960 $2,016 | $12,825 $48 | 63.85% | 4,345 | 1,300 | 74.00% | 11 to 1 |
| 6 2 | University of Dubuque Dubuque, IAPrivate, 4-year | $42,095 $2,030 | $9,530 $510 | 88.63% | 1,757 | 1,090 | 40.00% | 10 to 1 |
| 7 - | Buena Vista University Storm Lake, IAPrivate, 4-year | $41,798 $1,608 | $9,061 $1,109 | 77.61% | 1,890 | - | 62.00% | 13 to 1 |
| 8 1 | Clarke University Dubuque, IAPrivate, 4-year | $40,910 $1,310 | $12,237 $13 | 71.83% | 962 | 1,060 | 56.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 9 1 | Mount Mercy University Cedar Rapids, IAPrivate, 4-year | $40,878 $1,808 | $12,148 $738 | 82.52% | 1,417 | - | 58.00% | 14 to 1 |
| 10 1 | Morningside University Sioux City, IAPrivate, 4-year | $39,519 $1,329 | $11,516 $405 | 71.04% | 2,056 | - | 50.00% | 12 to 1 |
| Average | $48,480 | $10,017 | 68.55% | 1,789 | 1,215 | 62.70% | 11 to 1 |