Financial Aid / Tuition
Tuition: $20,988
Yes, you read that right
Central College’s affordable tuition price opens doors to a high-quality, liberal arts education — and scholarships are still available. In fact, every admitted student is guaranteed a $1,000 Journey Scholarship, and that’s on donor and alumni commitment.
See How Central Stacks UpCrunch the Numbers
- #4 of 28 Best Value Colleges in Iowa*
- The median salary of a Central graduate six years after college is $44,700 — compared to $33,028 nationally.*
How Central Stacks Up
Our 2023-24 tuition of $20,988 is comparable with state schools. And way less than other Iowa private colleges.
$20,988 (Central’s Tuition) + $12,060 (Central’s Room & Board) = $33,048
A Comparison of Tuition + Room and Board With Other Iowa Institutions
$11,629
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.
* Estimated price to attend based on 2022-23 published price plus 4%.
And Scholarships Are Still Available!
Central will continue to offer scholarships and financial aid in proportion to the new tuition price. In fact, Central now offers more scholarships than ever before.
Commitments and Programs
Central has a number of initiatives to enhance the student experience, boost the value of a Central education and promote the career readiness of its graduates.
For students who meet specific standards and expectations for progress toward a degree, Central guarantees graduation in four years or the ninth semester tuition is free. In addition, every student in good academic and social standing will be offered at least one internship, shadowing experience or community service opportunity.
We are committed to the success of our students. These assurances allow students to join the Central community knowing they are receiving an affordable education with incredible value — and knowing they will be supported in their success now and beyond graduation.
These initiatives include:
- Career Kickstarter, a weeklong, career-focused program available to all sophomores as they explore career possibilities.
- A campus chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha, an honor society for first-generation students.
- Membership into the National Society of Leadership and Success, the nation’s largest leadership honor society.
- Over 100 opportunities to get involved on campus.
Still Have Questions?
Check out these helpful Financial Aid FAQ videos, or see our Frequently Asked Questions page for more.
Getting Started
The FAFSA
Scholarships
Shaping a New Path Forward
The L.A. Garrison Scholarship for the Nontraditional Learner recognizes the potential in Central students. 2021-22 award recipient Madilynn Pietzman ’25 is grateful for the opportunities the scholarship has provided her.
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