2023 Best Value Colleges in Iowa

• Ames, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,900 reviews

Junior: Iowa State University is a great school. Most of the professors are high quality, while still being understanding. Some professors are more difficult to work with, however, their classes are still valuable. The biggest benefits include diversity and inclusion, a culture of learning, and a wide-open campus, that never seems too crowded, while the biggest negatives are expensive and low-quality housing on and around campus, low wages for work on campus, and the school board. The housing in Ames is very expensive due to high demand, and the on-campus housing is not particularly high quality. Most on-campus jobs range from $11-15 an hour, but some are less. The school board is also a negative for several reasons: they do not support employees and resist giving raises, especially for full-time dining and campus services staff, they don't really care about students' expenses, and they make decisions without any input from students or professionals, hence the existence of CyTown.... Read 3,900 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,422

• SAT range 1070-1330

• Iowa City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  3,795 reviews

Sophomore: It's easy to navigate, there are plenty of resources and opportunities for help if needed, and the staff is nice. It was a warm welcoming and pleasant surprise to attend the college. The curriculum is refreshing and challenging as it pushes you to take the imitative and learn things on your own but with the guidance of course. They have excellent hands-on activities in the science courses. The school is booming with extracurricular activities so it's easy to find something fun to do or a club to join! The cost of tuition is a value price and you get your money's worth from what is offered.... Read 3,795 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,599

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Pella, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  450 reviews

Niche User: I love the visit! It honestly feels like home. The professors are very knowledgeable and confident about what they teach. In addition, the student life is fantastic because it is so easy to make friends and to adjust to student life. Another reason is that the faculty/admissions is supporting and willing to help any student. They take you step by step through financial and academic help. I cannot wait to adapt to the new student life in 2020, to make new friends, and pursue my academic career.... Read 450 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $22,966

• SAT range 1000-1260

• Orange City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  385 reviews

Junior: My experience at Northwestern has been great! The first thing I noticed was how genuine the people are here. I am from Bozeman, Montana and I knew that if I was going to come so far from home I needed a strong support group at college. I can confidently say that I have found that here at Northwestern. There is such a strong Christ-centered community here which was exactly what I was looking for. I am a junior nursing major and I have had a great experience in the classroom and at clinicals in the area. The small student to professor ratio opens up more opportunities for one-on-one interactions. I feel the support of all of my professors to thrive in the classroom.... Read 385 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $24,848

• SAT range 940-1240

• Grinnell, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  435 reviews

Senior: Grinnell College is a special place. If you're considering coming to Grinnell, you should keep some things in mind: - It's very isolated. Grinnell is located in a small community with only one bus that goes to Chicago per day. This also means that it is a tight-knit community where everyone knows and care for each other. Also, the college started a free local shuttle on Wednesdays-Saturdays that stops at many places downtown including Walmart, which was amazing. We also have a free Saturday shuttle for neighboring cities such as Iowa City and Des Moines. - The academic life is very demanding. I love studying, but even for me the workload is a bit too much sometimes. However, I truly believe Grinnell professors are one of a kind. They are understanding, absurdly knowledgeable, and kind. I have three professors who really inspire me and numerous staff/faculty members who helped me when I most needed. Nonetheless, Grinnell is not a place to just earn a degree, it's about learning.... Read 435 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $37,423

• SAT range 1370-1530

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  970 reviews

Alum: The best part of my Drake experience is that they catered to the phase of my life I was in. For the first two years, I was provided a lot of hands-on experience and guidance from trusted advisors. They taught the importance of internships, networking, building a community on campus and finding close friendships to help me get through the challenges of being away at college. I thrived in this nurturing environment. Going into my third year, I found a passion for international business and language. It was encouraged to pursue passions beyond your major coursework and I can't say enough good things about the experiences I was able to have. I found leadership opportunities and found myself helping younger students achieve and build their passions. Upon graduation, I believe that helped me land my first position immediately in a field and role I love. I can't say enough good things about the curriculum, activities, advisors and peers at this university!... Read 970 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $29,507

• SAT range 1190-1410

• Cedar Falls, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,437 reviews

Freshman: I love the University of Northern Iowa for many reasons. When I initially began my college search I narrowed down my options to UNI, Iowa State, and Iowa. I took visits to all three of the universities but Iowa State and Iowa were too big for me and didn't make me feel like I'd enjoy going there. On my visits to UNI, the staff was super friendly and amazing, they even included a picture of me in their slide show which made me feel even more wanted! The campus was beautiful and I'm so excited to be attending this fall!... Read 1,437 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,231

• SAT range 980-1190

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  370 reviews

Senior: As being a transfer student, I already knew the atmosphere of what it was like to be a college student, but when coming to Clarke University I felt welcomed in right away. I didn't feel like just a number added to the University, instead I felt I was known. The campus and student life does a great job of encouraging students to support other sports teams, hosts free events for students to attend, and has lots of clubs/organizations to get students involved. Clarke University feels more like a big community and continues each year to find ways to create that community like atmosphere for the students. Professors, coaches, counselors, etc all want their students to feel the safe, and get the best education to succeed. If you are an individual who isn't meant for a huge campus, big classroom size, and being known as just a number than Clarke University is a place for you. There is so much here at Clarke that keeps you involved in the community and be known as an individual person!... Read 370 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $25,414

• SAT range 900-1120

• Davenport, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  759 reviews

Sophomore: I've had an amazing time at St. Ambrose! The campus is small and walkable, and the professors have years of experience and are very personable! Campus facilities have either been updated or are in the process of being updated allowing for a more modern feel to this 140 year old university. The only downside to the university would be the food service, they could definitely get rid of their current food service provider and I think you'd get a collective celebration from students and professors alike. But besides that, Ambrose is an incredible private university that will give you experiences to last a lifetime.... Read 759 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,844

• SAT range 1030-1190

• Indianola, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  357 reviews

Freshman: Simpson College excels in providing a unique and welcoming experience. Any student who attends Simpson is sure to agree with the previous statement, and also probably mention the wide variety of inclusive groups and organizations. Athletics, music, extracurriculars, and clubs are just some of the options available and many students such as myself enjoy the variety. The faculty at Simpson have also contributed to my experience greatly. Smaller class sizes and faculty that truly cares about helping you succeed has impacted me so much more than I thought it would. Talking to professors whenever I need help, or going into office hours is way less daunting because of the effort Simpson College and its faculty bring to the table. Overall, I am incredibly happy with Simpson College and recommend it to not just anyone interested in going to a liberal arts college, but anyone who cares about being supported as a student and an individual.... Read 357 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $20,986

• SAT range 890-1280

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  153 reviews

Freshman: My experience at MCHS was superb! I transferred 2 years' worth of credits into my cardiac sonographer associate's degree program and had little to no hassles at all. My academic advisors, Adrienne St. Clair and Erin Moon, was always very helpful and knowledgeable and I will forever remember all of the positive experiences I had with each of my professors. This school was not easy and definitely pushes you to your limits. It is challenging and not meant for those that give up easily. I personally loved the challenge and the fact that the curriculum was rigorous to prepare me for my career in healthcare. If it were easy, the value of the education would be severely diminished. If you're looking for an easier route, I would advise you to seek a for-profit college education.... Read 153 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $18,129

• SAT range —

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  374 reviews

Sophomore: Most of the teachers are awesome! The administration is lacking competency unfortunately, especially when it comes to financial aid/tuition issues or credit transfers. The campus is pretty old, and most of the buildings do not have A/C. Although the campus terrain is beautiful, it is incredibly hilly and a bit treacherous in the winter months with steep inclines and lots of steps. As such, the campus overall is not ADA-compliant unless one drives and parks directly in front of the desired building--not walkable.... Read 374 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $20,068

• SAT range 960-1140

• Decorah, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  759 reviews

Alum: Luther College is nestled in beautiful Decorah, Iowa. The campus is absolutely wonderful! Buildings are all easy to get to and kept up wonderfully. It is a smaller college and teachers/ professors are able to get to know their students and make connections with them. You get up-to-date technology and a top-of-the-line education but you also feel safe, secure, and like you are more than just a number or a tuition payment. I transferred in my Junior year and they worked well with my Community college. Due to my excellent grades, I was able to obtain scholarships and pay less for two years at Luther than I would have had to pay for one year without scholarships. I was also easily able to transfer some credits into my Graduate program so that I could take the Advanced standing MSW degree. I would highly recommend Luther College! Decorah has so much to offer and the scenery is breathtaking!... Read 759 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $25,929

• SAT range 1070-1270

• Sioux Center, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  413 reviews

Alum: Dordt isn't perfect (no college is), but in my experience as a student for 4 years, I loved it. Dordt is a school that puts faith first and they really invest in making people feel welcomed and known. I was challenged, encouraged, and supported the whole way through by faculty and staff, both academically, professionally, and spiritually. I met all of my lifelong friends here and due to the relationships built with my professors, I'd consider some of them friends too. After graduation, I felt prepared with the proper professional tools/skills to work in the field I am now. Yeah, Dordt is located in rural Iowa, but there was never a week that I was bored! There was always something to do with my friends. I loved the small class sizes, events, opportunities to get involved, academic quality, my study abroad program, the Christian atmosphere, and the community. I grew so much during my time here and I recommend Dordt to anyone who's looking for these things too.... Read 413 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $26,662

• SAT range 1050-1290

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  484 reviews

Sophomore: Morningside is a great university to attend! I have loved it there last year and it is definitely a good place for anyone looking to continue their education. It offers many wonderful opportunities that not only allow for a great education, but experiences like different ways to be involved in the community.... Read 484 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $23,222

• SAT range 880-1120

• Storm Lake, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  356 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the classes and professors very much. I was a part of their softball team and that ruined the experience for me. The softball coach, Sarah Richardson, was not a very good coach at all. She didn’t know how to coach a softball team and couldn’t run practices. She was overall a terrible coach and left our team with a conference record of 2-14. Lots of girls, including myself, are entering the transfer portal to try to play for a better coach with more skills. The school and learning environment overall was very good, but the athletics there are not good.... Read 356 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $18,532

• SAT range 950-1110

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  513 reviews

Junior: I am Currently going into my junior year at Coe and I have had an amazing time here. Despite us being in a pandemic Coe has managed to give it's students the college experience while still keeping everyone safe. If you are someone who want's to go to a school to be involved and make real change in a community, Coe is the place for you. Having a small campus has it's benefits, almost every student is involved in either a club, organization or sport making the community feel like home. It also benefits our student body because we all have really good opportunities to network, get internships, do research or study abroad. I personally am working two internships I got through Coe and I will be studying abroad next year in Korea. The only downside to Coe is the slight lack of diversity, Coe is a predominantly White Institution which can make students coming from diverse neighborhoods struggle to find their place at times.... Read 513 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $19,141

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Waverly, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  630 reviews

Alum: My experience at Wartburg positively changed who I was as a person primarily because of the community and amount of support that faculty and staff put into their students: the effort you put in you truly receive in return! I had multiple opportunities to put a part of something that I truly felt I belonged in: choirs, work studies, clubs/organizations, connecting with alumni and prospective students, so many second families I cherish. I was also a part of the COVID student population, and while that was a trying time for us all, I always felt safe and reassured by the efforts Wartburg made to make sure we could return to normalcy as quickly as possible while following guidelines. If I had the chance to go back to college and redo my undergraduate degree, I would absolutely choose Wartburg again and again for the people, the experiences, and the love that Wartburg showed me and I show back now!... Read 630 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $23,022

• SAT range 990-1200

• Forest City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  138 reviews

Freshman: I love Waldorf University, everyone is so welcoming! The facility is beautiful and the faculty goes above and beyond for their students. There is so much diversity amongst the students too, which i personally love because you meet so many new people. As a student athlete, Waldorf makes balancing life easier with the guidance from academic advisors and coaches. Waldrof University is for everyone and anyone with passion and devotion to succeed... Read 138 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $21,483

• SAT range 920-1110

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  209 reviews

Sophomore: Briar Cliff University is a small private 4 year institution. With staff that are dedicated with making sure that the students have what they need and hold them accountable for making it to their classes and completing coursework. The ratio of student to professor is small, with 1 professor to 24 students, which allows more of a 1:1 ratio when you need assistance. With an active student government, the students voice is heard and charges made immediately after a problem is identified and addressed. Briar Cliff University is your home away from home with a beautiful scenery. Tuition lock on all incoming students making you keep your 1st year tuition all 4 years, making Briar Cliff University very affordable!... Read 209 reviews

• grade C

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,734

• SAT range —

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  395 reviews

Freshman: I thought Grand View was amazing! I love the community, being from a small town in the Midwest. Grand View was the perfect size and in the perfect area, because Des Moines is a “country big city.” I also really loved the small class sizes and the way the professors personally connected to the students. They understood that we have our own lives and they took that into consideration when dealing with our schoolwork.... Read 395 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $20,434

• SAT range 920-1080

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  292 reviews

Freshman: Mount Mercy is a great university. The staff and students are friendly. The professors really care about your success and do everything they can to make sure you are successful. There are so many resources available to students like ACE (Academic Center for Excellence), the Mustang Market, and office hours with professors. By utilizing these things, I was able to make it through my freshman year of college.... Read 292 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $25,345

• SAT range —

• Lamoni, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  332 reviews

Junior: I LOVE GRACELAND! Being an International student, my decision in which college I chose was crucial as it would be my home for the next 4 years. As I am so far away from home (UK), I needed somewhere with a small community that treated me like they were family and that is exactly what Graceland does. Not only are the academics amazing, with small classes and personal relationships with professors, but I know that I am in safe hands. If there is ever a problem or I need help, I know exactly who to contact and have complete faith that whatever I am looking for or need will be found and resolved. Graceland ensures that each student has a comfortable and fun life when enrolled as a student. As Lamoni is a small town, people often think that there will be nothing to do but Graceland ensures that that is not the case. I have met the most amazing people here and it has changed my life forever. If I was to go through the recruitment/enrollment process again, I would pick Graceland again.... Read 332 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $18,595

• SAT range 880-1120

• Mount Vernon, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.39 out of 5  743 reviews

Sophomore: I am from San Francisco, and it was a very big change going from California to Iowa but Cornell College really made it feel easy, except for the snow and the cold! I love most of the professors and they are all very dedicated to their subjects and classes. The campus is gorgeous and very nice, if not a bit hilly. The main hub of campus, Thomas Commons, is a nice place to relax every once in a while when I don’t want to go to my dorm room or just want a place to sit for a bit. I like the sense of comfort I have when walking around campus and the student body, a feeling probably started by our incredibly kind President Brand. While the upperclassmen dorms are a bit rough, they’re okay and livable (sometimes, hahaha). Overall there is little I’d change; I really do feel supported here both as a person and as a student.... Read 743 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $22,667

• SAT range 1130-1340

• Fayette, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  465 reviews

Sophomore: Upper Iowa was very flexible with my schedule and offers online self-paced classes that allow you to complete your work on your own schedule. This was very helpful and allowed me to work around my busy schedule. Super military friendly as well! I do wish that they offered more classes as online self-paced options, but I was still able to finish my associate's degree entirely online.... Read 465 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $22,888

• SAT range 870-1090