🎓 American Colleges & University Finder
Search 6,000+ accredited US colleges — tuition, acceptance rates, enrollment and more.
Colleges and Universities in Iowa
Iowa — the Hawkeye State — is home to 66 accredited colleges and universities, including 17 public institutions and 49 private schools. The state flagship, University of Iowa, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Des Moines to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in Iowa. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in Iowa at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 66
- Public universities: 17
- Private colleges: 49
- Flagship institution: University of Iowa
- Largest higher-ed city: Des Moines
Types of colleges in Iowa
Public universities in Iowa are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to Iowa residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in Iowa include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in Iowa often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in Iowa
How many colleges are in Iowa?
There are 66 accredited colleges and universities in Iowa in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 17 public and 49 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in Iowa?
Community colleges in Iowa typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in Iowa?
University of Iowa is among the largest and most well-known universities in Iowa. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.