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

Find Open Programs 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 26 private universities available.

The average tuition fee of private universities in Iowa for international bachelor’s students is 37,700 USD with ranging from 14,400 USD to 71,800 USD.

The average tuition fee of private universities in Iowa for international Master’s students is 5,347 USD with ranging from 3,720 USD to 33,300 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.