26 Best Private Universities in Iowa for International Students

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There are a lot of countries that offer various studies in both public and private institutions of higher education, but if you are interested in studying at a distinguished private university that offers more than just formal education, then Iowa is one of the states in United States that will allow you to do that. Furthermore, your time in Iowa will provide you with numerous opportunities to expand and grow on both a social and psychological level.

Private institutions are a great way to reach your academic goals and get that well-deserved degree. To help you out, check out the list below if you’re looking to study in a private university in Iowa. Each university page provides you with specific details on tuition, admission, language requirements, available courses, and more. So, make sure to check the university pages! Let’s dig in!

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Rank University Location
1 Grinnell College Grinnell, United States
2 Drake University Des Moines, United States
3 Dordt University Sioux Center, United States
4 Maharishi International University Fairfield, United States
5 Luther College Decorah, United States
6 St. Ambrose University Davenport, United States
7 Des Moines University Des Moines, United States
8 Cornell College Mount Vernon, Iowa, United States
9 Coe College Cedar Rapids, United States
10 Central College Pella, United States
11 Graceland University Lamoni, United States
12 Wartburg College Waverly, United States
13 Morningside University Sioux City, United States
14 Simpson College Indianola, United States
15 Clarke University Dubuque, United States
16 Loras College Dubuque, United States
17 Buena Vista University Storm Lake, United States
18 Northwestern College Orange City, United States
19 Upper Iowa University Fayette, Iowa, United States
20 University of Dubuque Dubuque, United States
21 Grand View University Des Moines, United States
22 Mount Mercy University Cedar Rapids, United States
23 Briar Cliff University Sioux City, United States
24 Waldorf University Forest City, United States
25 William Penn University Oskaloosa, United States
26 Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary Ankeny, United States

Find Open Programs for International Students!

Browse through currently open programs around the world for international students!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does Private Universities in Iowa Cost?

There are 26 private universities in Iowa, out of which, we have tuition fee of 25 private universities available.

The average tuition fee of private universities in Iowa for international bachelor’s students is 36,100 USD with ranging from 16,600 USD to 61,000 USD.

The average tuition fee of private universities in Iowa for international Master’s students is 6,026 USD with ranging from 4,500 USD to 38,600 USD.


As you plan your studies abroad, we hope that this article will help you in choosing a good private university.

We know that attending a private university can be expensive, given its benefits and added perks. But remember that public universities are always an option, too, as they're affordable and can provide you with the same high-quality education. With that, feel free to check out our list of public universities in Iowa to learn more about your options for your next academic destination.