For the 2025-26 school year, there are 254 private schools serving 52,607 students in Iowa (there are 1,320 public schools, serving 501,674 students). 9% of all K-12 students in Iowa attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $9,547 for elementary schools and $11,290 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in Iowa include Rivermont Collegiate, Sacred Heart Continuation School, and Scattergood Friends School.
The average acceptance rate is 85% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 16% and the student-teacher ratio is 12:1.
Top Ranked Iowa Private Schools by County (2025-26)
Popular neighborhoods: Cedar Hills (3 schools), Noelridge Park (2 schools), Southwest Area (2 schools), Merle Hay (2 schools), Penn (2 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked private schools in Iowa?
The top-ranked private schools in Iowa include Rivermont Collegiate, Sacred Heart Continuation School, and Scattergood Friends School.
How many private schools are located in Iowa?
There are 254 private schools are located in Iowa.
How much do private schools cost in Iowa?
The average private school tuition in Iowa is $9,547 for elementary schools and $11,290 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in Iowa?
Approximately 16% of students in Iowa private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in Iowa go to private school?
9% of all K-12 students in Iowa attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in Iowa?
Which private schools in Iowa are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in Iowa include: Suburan Hgts. Baptist Church vs. Maharishi School, Burlington Notre Dame vs. Great River Christian School, St. Cecilia Elementary School vs. Ames Christian School
Recent Articles
Student Success Predictors at Community Colleges
A practical guide to student success predictors at community colleges for private school advisors helping graduates navigate two-year pathways.
Career Pathways with Community College for Private School Grads
Explore top career pathways with community college for private school graduates, including high-demand jobs, transfer options, and 2025 workforce trends.
Navigating the FAFSA & Financial Aid Timeline for Community College
Learn how to navigate FAFSA and financial aid timelines when starting at community college — from application to disbursement in 2025.
