15 Cheapest Universities in Iowa for International Students

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In Iowa, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United States without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Iowa, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 29 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Iowa, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Iowa for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Iowa ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Maharishi International University 14,400 USD - 18,000 USD 61%
Upper Iowa University 18,800 USD 49%
Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary 21,000 USD 43%
University of Northern Iowa 21,000 USD - 23,000 USD 43%
Graceland University 21,000 USD 43%
Central College 22,000 USD 41%
Waldorf University 25,300 USD 32%
Wartburg College 26,000 USD 30%
Iowa State University 30,600 USD - 34,500 USD 17%
William Penn University 30,800 USD 17%
University of Iowa 33,800 USD 9%
Grand View University 35,500 USD 4%
Briar Cliff University 37,400 USD -1%
Dordt University 37,400 USD -1%
Buena Vista University 37,600 USD -2%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 36,700 USD for universities in Iowa.

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1. Maharishi International University

Maharishi International University embraces the concept of full development. It aims to fulfill economic aspirations while also sustaining the environment and bringing spiritual contentment to humanity. The university is composed of a diverse student body, with the population coming from different parts of the world.

2. Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University (UIU) is a private university in Fayette, Iowa. It is well-known for its unique courses, low tuition, and distance learning programs. UIU offers 29 undergraduate degrees and 6 graduate programs ranging from art to technology.

3. Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary is a great place for people dedicated to studying faith and religion. The institution is grounded on the Bible, whether old or new scripture. It also acknowledges the Holy Trinity, the Creation, the Spirit Realm, Humanity, and other religious concepts.

The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Its master’s and doctorate programs are available through its seminary.

4. University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa offers comprehensive academic training to give students the advantage they need in fields like business and education. The university takes pride in its student-centered curriculum, which is why a lot of students compete to be admitted to their chosen program. With its vibrant community, the University of Northern Iowa promises to always improve and offer something new to its constituents.

5. Graceland University

Graceland University is a private university in Lamoni, Iowa. Other campuses are located in Centerville, Cedar Rapids, and Missouri. The university was established in 1895 by the RLDS Church. They provide courses in the arts, sciences, education, business, and religious studies. The mission of Graceland is to create learning communities in which students can develop their potential for meaningful and productive lives.

6. Central College

Central College is a private liberal four-year institution known for its student-centered approach to learning.  Founded by a group of pioneer settlers, the college was initially influenced by Baptist Church but eventually became affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. International education was introduced early in college, which has grown to incorporate into its curriculum the study abroad programs across its international institution partners.

7. Waldorf University

Waldorf University is a private university in Forest City, Iowa. It was founded as Waldorf College in 1903. They provide associate, undergraduate, and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines. Popular majors include Business, Occupational Safety, Homeland Security, and Psychology. At Waldorf, students will benefit from a well-rounded experience by participating in arts, sports, and other extracurricular activities.

8. Wartburg College

Wartburg College is dedicated to nurturing students and helping them become leaders someday. It hopes to produce excellent graduates that are willing to contribute and serve the community. It is a selective liberal arts college that is internationally renowned because of its high engagement with society.

9. Iowa State University

Iowa State University has a long and rich history that can be traced back to 1858. The university is one of the pioneers to accept students regardless of gender. It is also among the first universities to include practical subjects in its curriculum. Throughout the years, the university has created innovative educational programs and has massive contributions to research. With its exceptional education system, it has become one of the best institutions in the US and has continued to rank high in the national and global university rankings.

10. William Penn University

William Penn University was founded in 1873 with the mission and vision of leadership, integrity, and equality. Some of their core values include technology, simplicity, peacemaking, and community. The campus is described to have a “Small Town Charm” and is also open to all individuals. The school offers undergraduate and graduate level programs on-campus, online, or a hybrid of both.

11. University of Iowa

A public institution, the University of Iowa is one of the state’s longest-running institutions. Since its establishment in 1847, they have produced more than 250,000 professionals in different fields. Moreover, they have a high position in national and global rankings, showing their outstanding performance in teaching and research. They highly excel in providing arts and sciences programs to both undergraduate and graduate levels.

12. Grand View University

Grand View University currently has 1875 students studying under 40 undergraduate majors and 5 master’s degrees. Over 800 of these students live in six residential establishments found on the campus. To satisfy the desire for extracurricular activities, there are over 26 sports teams and 40 student organizations. Aside from the welcoming and diverse student community, the culture and tradition revolve around leadership, networking, and open opportunities.

13. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University is a Catholic higher educational institution in Sioux City, Iowa that offers online and on-campus undergraduate programs and graduate degree programs. Providing education for over 90 years,  the university maintains small class sizes and a tight-knit community. It is home to over 900 students who are encouraged by the university to take part in numerous student-led sports, art, and volunteer activities.

14. Dordt University

Dordt University is a Christian institution that opens its doors to all students interested in Christ-centered education. The university offers a variety of associate, bachelor, and master’s degrees incorporating a Christian perspective. Most of its students are living in residential halls inside the campus and are receiving financial aid and scholarships.

15. Buena Vista University

Buena Vista University provides several on-site, online, and hybrid courses for undergrad and grad students. Its quality of online education is backed by 15 years of experience teaching online classes. Many opportunities are open for BVU students, including internships, volunteering, teaching, research, and more.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Iowa for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Iowa ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Buena Vista University 3,720 USD - 8,910 USD 63%
Clarke University 3,900 USD - 14,000 USD 61%
Upper Iowa University 4,260 USD - 11,800 USD 57%
Northwestern College 4,320 USD - 10,700 USD 57%
Morningside University 4,380 USD - 12,400 USD 56%
Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary 4,560 USD - 6,840 USD 54%
Dordt University 4,740 USD - 12,600 USD 53%
Briar Cliff University 5,460 USD - 10,600 USD 45%
Waldorf University 5,520 USD - 8,280 USD 45%
William Penn University 6,000 USD - 9,000 USD 40%
Drake University 6,420 USD - 12,900 USD 36%
Grand View University 6,720 USD - 11,100 USD 33%
Graceland University 7,050 USD - 8,400 USD 29%
Maharishi International University 7,200 USD - 20,200 USD 28%
Mount Mercy University 7,320 USD - 14,000 USD 26%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 9,888 USD for universities in Iowa.

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1. Buena Vista University

Buena Vista University provides several on-site, online, and hybrid courses for undergrad and grad students. Its quality of online education is backed by 15 years of experience teaching online classes. Many opportunities are open for BVU students, including internships, volunteering, teaching, research, and more.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Buena Vista University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 3,720 USD to 8,910 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Clarke University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Clarke University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Clarke University is 3,900 USD to 13,950 USD.

Founded in 1843, Clarke University has been offering numerous possibilities to diverse students. Since its establishment, this private institution has always aimed to provide high-quality education to its students. Although already known for its academic excellence, the university continues to grow, make necessary improvements and develop innovative programs to ensure that only the highest standard of education is given to current and prospective students.

3. Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University (UIU) is a private university in Fayette, Iowa. It is well-known for its unique courses, low tuition, and distance learning programs. UIU offers 29 undergraduate degrees and 6 graduate programs ranging from art to technology.

The tuition fee at Upper Iowa University for incoming international master’s students is 4,260 USD to 11,790 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Northwestern College

Another affordable university to consider in Iowa is Northwestern College.

Northwestern College, a private institution in the US midwest, is a Christian college established in 1882. It is connected to the Reformed Church in America, a Protestant group. The college provides several undergrad courses, such as majors, minors, pre-professional programs, interdisciplinary programs, career concentrations, student-initiated majors, and certificates. Graduate-level programs are also offered, although most are available only in online-learning mode. The only on-campus program is Physician Assistant or MSPAS.

The tuition fee in Northwestern College for master’s program for foreign students starts from 4,320 USD.

5. Morningside University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Morningside University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 4,380 USD yearly.

Morningside University is a private university in Sioux City, Iowa. It was founded in 1894 by city business leaders and Methodist ministers. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including the arts, health sciences, communication, and humanities. Business Administration and Management, Biology, Nursing, and Teaching are among the most popular majors at Morningside.

6. Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary is a great place for people dedicated to studying faith and religion. The institution is grounded on the Bible, whether old or new scripture. It also acknowledges the Holy Trinity, the Creation, the Spirit Realm, Humanity, and other religious concepts.

The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Its master’s and doctorate programs are available through its seminary.

7. Dordt University

Dordt University is a Christian institution that opens its doors to all students interested in Christ-centered education. The university offers a variety of associate, bachelor, and master’s degrees incorporating a Christian perspective. Most of its students are living in residential halls inside the campus and are receiving financial aid and scholarships.

8. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University is a Catholic higher educational institution in Sioux City, Iowa that offers online and on-campus undergraduate programs and graduate degree programs. Providing education for over 90 years,  the university maintains small class sizes and a tight-knit community. It is home to over 900 students who are encouraged by the university to take part in numerous student-led sports, art, and volunteer activities.

9. Waldorf University

Waldorf University is a private university in Forest City, Iowa. It was founded as Waldorf College in 1903. They provide associate, undergraduate, and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines. Popular majors include Business, Occupational Safety, Homeland Security, and Psychology. At Waldorf, students will benefit from a well-rounded experience by participating in arts, sports, and other extracurricular activities.

10. William Penn University

William Penn University was founded in 1873 with the mission and vision of leadership, integrity, and equality. Some of their core values include technology, simplicity, peacemaking, and community. The campus is described to have a “Small Town Charm” and is also open to all individuals. The school offers undergraduate and graduate level programs on-campus, online, or a hybrid of both.

11. Drake University

Drake University is one of the leading universities in the Midwest. It provides all the necessary resources and tools for students during their campus stay. The university also ensures that students and instructors maintain close personal relationships with each other through small class sizes and numerous research opportunities.

12. Grand View University

Grand View University currently has 1875 students studying under 40 undergraduate majors and 5 master’s degrees. Over 800 of these students live in six residential establishments found on the campus. To satisfy the desire for extracurricular activities, there are over 26 sports teams and 40 student organizations. Aside from the welcoming and diverse student community, the culture and tradition revolve around leadership, networking, and open opportunities.

13. Graceland University

Graceland University is a private university in Lamoni, Iowa. Other campuses are located in Centerville, Cedar Rapids, and Missouri. The university was established in 1895 by the RLDS Church. They provide courses in the arts, sciences, education, business, and religious studies. The mission of Graceland is to create learning communities in which students can develop their potential for meaningful and productive lives.

14. Maharishi International University

Maharishi International University embraces the concept of full development. It aims to fulfill economic aspirations while also sustaining the environment and bringing spiritual contentment to humanity. The university is composed of a diverse student body, with the population coming from different parts of the world.

15. Mount Mercy University

Mount Mercy University is a private educational institution located in Cedar Rapids, a city teeming with beautiful attractions, flourishing businesses, and an excellent startup ecosystem. Education at the university is a  of classroom learning and practical experience where students step out into the community and conduct research, undergo internships, and participate in community service and other activities that would allow them to apply their learnings. Graduates at Mount Mercy University are also known for their high success rate in their chosen professions and graduate schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Iowa?

Applying to cheap universities in Iowa requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United States for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Iowa?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Iowa. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Iowa is the Buena Vista University, which offers Agricultural Business, Biomedical Sciences, and Communication Studies to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Buena Vista University offers Special Education, Educational Administration, and Secondary Education.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Iowa, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Iowa as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Iowa for international students was helpful!