2025 Cheapest Iowa Public Colleges

Choosing a college in Iowa doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. While many colleges in Iowa are known for their high tuition costs, there are also plenty of affordable options available. This guide highlights the most budget-friendly colleges in Iowa , focusing on tuition and fees for the 2024-2025 academic year, so you can plan for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year with confidence.

In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 3 four-year Iowa Public Colleges with the Lowest Tuition & Fees is $27,988, reflecting a 2.54% increase compared to the previous year.

University of Northern Iowa ranks as the least expensive public Iowa colleges. With tuition and fees at just $21,712, University of Northern Iowa offers an affordable education without compromising on quality. It is an excellent choice for students seeking value in their college experience.

Close behind are Iowa State University at$28,881 and University of Iowa at$33,371 both consistently recognized among the Iowa Public Colleges with the Lowest Tuition & Fees, providing quality education at a fraction of the cost of many other colleges.

At these Affordable Iowa Public Colleges, the average acceptance rate is 88.34%, and the average SAT score is 1,217, making them not only cost-effective but also accessible options for a wide range of students.

Comparison between Iowa Public Colleges With The Lowest Tuition & Fees

Table. Iowa Public Colleges With The Lowest Tuition & Fees Comparison
School NameUndergraduate Tuition & FeesGraduate Tuition & FeesAcceptance RateTotal PopulationSAT ScoreGraduation RateStudents to Faculty Ratio
1
-
University of Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, IAPublic, 4-year $21,712
($9,936)
$440
$23,304
($11,602)
$470
92.74%9,2781,17068.00%18 to 1
2
-
Iowa State University Ames, IAPublic, 4-year $28,881
($10,787)
$1,198
$30,577
($12,967)
$1,274
88.66%30,3801,25075.00%18 to 1
3
-
University of Iowa Iowa City, IAPublic, 4-year $33,371
($11,283)
$444
$32,372
($13,425)
$2,510
83.62%30,7791,23075.00%16 to 1
Average$27,988
($10,669)
$28,751
($12,665)
88.34%23,4791,21772.67%17 to 1