Financial Aid
No Fine Print
Central College’s affordable tuition and guaranteed scholarships don’t include fine print. That’s because we value transparency and know that our numbers speak for themselves. You won’t find any gimmicks here — only guarantees that your Central education is an investment you can afford.
A High-Quality Education
We work to make sure a high-quality education at Central is attainable for all students. Both academic and need-based financial aid is available, and the value of your education will endure throughout your life.
You’ll leave college better prepared for a career, having focused on hands-on learning, internships and making connections that will last a lifetime.
A Private Education:
More Affordable Than Ever
We don’t believe tuition prices should be a barrier to a quality education. Central is more affordable than ever. And that’s before financial aid!
Our commitment to affordable pricing and generous scholarship offerings make Central’s high-quality, individualized education comparable in price to that of many large public universities.
How Central Stacks Up
Our 2026-27 tuition of $22,374 is comparable with state schools. And way less than other Iowa private colleges.
$22,374 (Central’s Tuition) + $12,060 (Central’s Housing and Food) + $500 (Fee) = $34,934
A Comparison of Tuition + Housing and Food With Other Iowa Institutions
$14,598
Average aid and scholarships a student receives from Central, federal and state awards, which can be subtracted from total price for an incredibly affordable experience.
| Institution | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Iowa State University | $22,020 |
| University of Iowa | $25,302 |
| Central College | $34,934 (2026-27 cost) |
| Wartburg College | $41,355 (2026-27 cost) |
| Simpson College | $62,000 (2026-27 cost) |
| Coe College | $71,890 (2026-27 cost) |
* Data reflects 2026–27 total cost to attend; other institutions reflect 2025–26 costs.
The Perfect Match
My experience with Wayne Dille and Donna Newendorp in financial aid was really great. They communicated so thoroughly and clearly with my mom about how financial aid works. They helped us with scholarships. I can’t thank them enough for making my college experience possible for me.”
Pierre Baldwin ’26
HOMETOWN: Carol Stream, Illinois
SCHOLARSHIPS: Journey, Presidential, Trustee, Hearst Endowed, Hill Endowed, Spiekhout Endowed
MAJOR: Strength and Conditioning
MINOR: Communication Studies
CAREER GOAL: Support athletes with strength and conditioning at a college level
Crunch the Numbers
- 96% of Central College graduates are employed two years after graduation — compared to 83% nationally.*
- 100% of Central College students receive financial aid.
Next Step – File the FAFSA
Filing the FAFSA is the first step toward maximizing your financial aid. While you wait for your aid, we can also provide an early look at what to expect. Our financial aid office provides families with early aid estimates. Connect with Wayne Dille, director of financial aid, at 641-628-5336 or dillew@central.edu to request a preliminary award.
A Kinetic Thread
Central’s kinesiology program offers students hands-on clinical and practical experiences that prepare them for successful careers helping people improve their health, functionality, performance and wellness. The blend of classroom education, technology and hands-on work with athletes and clients gives Central graduates an advantage.
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