CostByCollegeState hub
College costs in Iowa
This page lists the 4 pilot schools in Iowa that are covered in this pilot. The lowest published total cost among them is $16,908 at Des Moines Area Community College, for one year, in state. The full list of 300 pilot schools is on the homepage, and selection for the pilot is explained on the methodology page.
Iowa averages
| Figure | Average |
|---|---|
| Total cost for one year, in state | $38,300 |
| Total cost for one year, out of state | $49,474 |
| Average net price for one year | $20,260 |
| Acceptance rate | 62.2% |
Averages on this page are simple averages across the pilot schools in Iowa that publish each figure. They describe the schools listed on this site, not every college in the state.
Schools in Iowa ranked by total cost
| School | City | Total cost, in state | Total cost, out of state | Average net price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines Area Community College | Ankeny | $16,908 | $22,458 | $10,119 |
| Iowa State University | Ames | $24,204 | $41,390 | $17,354 |
| University of Iowa | Iowa City | $28,596 | $50,559 | $20,121 |
| Grinnell College | Grinnell | $83,490 | $83,490 | $33,446 |
Schools in Iowa ranked by acceptance rate
| School | Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | Applicants | Admitted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grinnell College | 12.7% | 9,988 | 1,266 |
| University of Iowa | 84.7% | 25,682 | 21,746 |
| Iowa State University | 89.1% | 22,995 | 20,496 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does college cost in Iowa?
Across the 4 pilot schools in Iowa that publish a total cost, the simple average total cost for one year is $38,300 for in state students. Individual schools on this page range from $16,908 upward.
What is the cheapest pilot school in Iowa on this site?
By published total cost for one year, the lowest is Des Moines Area Community College at $16,908 for in state students. Average net price can change the order, because grant aid differs by school.
What is the average acceptance rate in Iowa?
Across the 3 pilot schools in Iowa that publish a rate, the simple average acceptance rate is 62.2% for fall 2023.
Are these every college in Iowa?
No. This pilot covers 300 schools nationwide, chosen by measured search demand, selectivity, and enrollment, with at least one school in every state. The Iowa page lists only the pilot schools in the state.
Sources: the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard, United States Department of Education. See the methodology page for sources, years, and how averages are worked out.